On the evening of 24th September 2025, under the glowing floodlights of Changlimithang Stadium, Bhutanese football witnessed history being made yet again. Paro FC, the pride of a valley and the heartbeat of a nation, roared to glory with a 2–1 victory over Transport United on their home ground, sealing the BoB Bhutan Premier League title with a game to spare.
Paro FC Weekly Highlights
From rain delays to ruthless finishes, the Tigers showed once again what it means to play with heart, fire, and pride. Both our men and women turned the pitch into their stage—and reminded Bhutan that Paro FC is more than a club, it’s a force.
Paro FC Weekly Round-Up
Men’s Team After the hiccup away at Tensung, the Tigers bounced back in style. On August 28, Paro swept aside Tsirang with a commanding 6–2 victory at Woochu. Then came today’s headline. On September 1, Paro FC delivered a record-breaking performance, defeating Southern City 20–1 at home. From the opening whistle, it was wave after wave of attack, with both our international stars and Bhutanese players sharing the goals. This wasn’t just three points — it was a statement that Paro intends to dominate the league. Women’s Team The women’s side is matching the same energy. Two weeks ago, they claimed a 6–0 away win over Gelephu Girls Academy. Last week, in front of the Woochu crowd, they showed grit and quality with a 4–2 victory against Ugyen Academy Women. Back-to-back wins underline their growing confidence and winning mentality. Continental Stage: AFC Challenge League Paro FC has been drawn into Group A of the AFC Challenge League, facing:• Altyn Asyr (Turkmenistan)• Al Shabab Club (Oman)• Abdysh-Ata Kant (Kyrgyzstan) Even better, Bhutan will host the group matches from October 25 to October 31. It’s the second straight year Paro have made the group stage, after captain Evans Asante’s stoppage-time winner against Abu Muslim Farah in the Preliminary Stage. Behind the Scenes President Karma Jigme, the board, technical staff, medical team, and operations crew continue to push tirelessly, ensuring Paro FC’s rise is supported on and off the pitch. What’s Next September is full of challenges and opportunities:• Samtse at home — September 9• RTC away — September 15 Every match is preparation for the continental stage, and every roar from the stands pushes us forward. #PrideofParo
The Return of Legend
Puspalal Sharma made a remarkable return as head coach of Paro FC, delivering an impressive start that sparked enthusiasm and hope for the club’s future success. Despite a condensed preparation period, his leadership infused resistance, passion, and dedication, guiding Paro FC to a string of important victories in competitive matches, including the AFC Challenge League preliminary stage against Abu Muslim Farah FC, as well as key Bhutan Premier League clashes. Return to Leadership and AFC Challenge League Puspalal Sharma, a distinguished football figure with multiple league titles and a respected coaching profile in Bhutanese football, resumed his role as head coach of Paro FC in 2025. His return was immediately put to the test as the club prepared for a crucial AFC Challenge League preliminary round match against Afghan champions Abu Muslim Farah FC. With limited time for preparation, he galvanized the team with tactical discipline and strong morale. Paro FC’s resilience under his guidance led to a competitive outing in this high-stakes continental contest, displaying his ability to mobilize the team quickly and effectively. Strong Performances in the Bhutan Premier League Post the AFC Challenge League encounter, they continued their dominance on the domestic front with notable performances: In a challenging away match against Tensung FC, Paro FC secured a narrow but crucial 1-0 victory. Tensung FC, ranked near the bottom of the Bhutan Premier League standings, has historically struggled against Paro FC, which holds a perfect winning record in their head-to-head encounters (11 wins out of 11 matches). This match added to Paro FC’s ongoing winning streak under Puspalal, who has emphasized consistency and tactical solidity. Back on home turf, Paro FC delivered a commanding 6-2 win against Tsirang FC. The team capitalized on their home advantage with an aggressive attacking display and solid defensive organization, reflecting his balanced coaching approach that combines offensive firepower with disciplined defense. Puspa’s Impact and Coaching Philosophy Puspalal Sharma’s coaching career is marked by repeated success in Bhutanese football, including five Bhutan Premier League titles, and recognition as the President’s Coach of the Year for three consecutive years. Beyond trophies, he is known for nurturing team spirit, resilience under pressure, and adapting swiftly in competitive environments. His background as a former player, teacher, and university lecturer contributes to his holistic and methodical approach to football coaching, emphasizing mental toughness and physical preparedness. In his recent return, he quickly imposed his strategic vision on Paro FC, demanding high intensity in training despite time constraints before key matches. His approach helped the team sustain focus and deliver results despite formidable opponents and logistical challenges. Looking Ahead for Paro FC With Puspalal at the helm, Paro FC seems poised to continue its domestic dominance while also aiming for stronger showings in continental competitions. The club’s recent victories and performance improvements, underlined by his leadership, signal a promising season ahead. Fans and supporters are encouraged to rally behind the team as they pursue further success in the Bhutan Premier League and beyond. Puspalal Sharma’s return as head coach of Paro FC has been marked by immediate, impactful results, illustrating his passion, dedication, and tactical acumen. His ability to lead the club through a tight AFC Challenge League preparation and secure decisive domestic wins underscores his reputation as one of Bhutan’s top football coaches. Under his guidance, Paro FC is well-positioned for continued success, inspiring hope and excitement among the football community in Bhutan. This marks an invigorating chapter for the club, blending experience with ambition, as Paro FC pushes to uphold its status as champions and contenders in Bhutanese football.
Paro FC Drawn Into Group of Titans
The draw for the 2025–26 AFC Challenge League has placed Bhutan’s champions, Paro FC, in Group A—a battlefield filled with continental heavyweights. The Mighty Foes Await Altyn Asyr FC (Turkmenistan) – Seven-time domestic champions, hardened by years of experience in Asian competitions. Known for their disciplined structure and a squad built on consistency, they are regarded as one of the toughest sides in the region. Al Shabab Club (Oman) – A historic Omani side, famed for their tactical brilliance and passionate fanbase. Al Shabab’s record at home and abroad has made them one of the most respected names in Gulf football. FC Abdysh-Ata (Kyrgyzstan) – The reigning powerhouse of Central Asia, feared for their relentless attack and uncompromising style of play. Their rise in recent years has marked them as one of the most dangerous clubs in this competition. To the wider football world, these are giants. To Paro FC, they are the mountains we must climb. The Underdog Roars Paro FC enters this group without the riches or long continental pedigree of our rivals. But we bring something far greater: belief and unity. We carry the fire of captain Evans Asante, whose stoppage-time strike against Abu Muslim Farah FC secured Bhutan’s place on this stage. We carry the spirit of Nima Wangdi, Kinga Wangchuk, Tsheltrim Namgyel, and every Bhutanese player who fights with the heart of a nation. We carry the dream of the fans, who will transform the stands into a fortress and show Asia what Bhutanese football is made of. Why This Group Matters This is not just football. It is Bhutan standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Asia’s best. Every goal, every tackle, every chant will send a message: the underdog will not bow. The dragon is ready to roar against the storm. Call to the Fans Paro FC cannot do this alone. Your voices, your presence, and your support will be the strength behind every kick of the ball. Together, we can turn this campaign into a story that echoes across the continent. The group stage begins this October. The challenge is mighty, but so is our spirit. The underdog story begins now. #PrideOfParo #RiseOfTheDragon #AFCChallengeLeague
Paro FC Weekly Roundup
The roar of Paro FC continues to grow louder with every match. This past week saw the Tigers dig deep in Wangdue, prepare for continental battles on the Asian stage, and witness the women’s team deliver one of their most emphatic performances of the season. Friday’s trip to the MTC Ground was never going to be easy. Tensung FC may be near the bottom of the table, but they fought with pride on their home turf. For long stretches, it looked like the match would end in a stalemate. But as champions do, Paro found a way. In the 87th minute, Evans Asante broke the deadlock, smashing home the decisive goal that secured a 1–0 victory. The result kept Paro on top of the BOB Bhutan Premier League table. Fans celebrated the grit and leadership, though many also noted the need for sharper finishing to avoid late drama. Off the domestic stage, Bhutan received more recognition at the continental level. It is now official that Paro FC will once again host the AFC Challenge League group stage at Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu. The group stage draw takes place this Thursday, August 28th, when the Tigers will discover their next opponents. Clubs already in the mix include Al-Ansar of Lebanon, Al-Seeb and Al-Shabab of Oman, Altyn Asyr of Turkmenistan, Regar-TadAZ of Tajikistan, as well as Southeast Asian sides like Dewa United Banten, PKR Svay Rieng, Shan United, and Manila Digger. Whoever comes to Bhutan, the Tigers are ready to defend their ground. Hosting these matches is about more than football. Each visiting team brings fans, officials, and media, boosting local tourism, business, and Bhutan’s reputation as a capable footballing nation. The benefits ripple beyond the pitch, inspiring youth and fueling pride in the community. If the men provided drama, the women delivered dominance. After a spirited draw against defending champions RTC WFC, Paro FC Women traveled south to Gelephu and produced a stunning display, defeating the BFF Academy Girls 6–0 away from home. It was a statement of intent and a reflection of the squad’s growing depth and attacking power. The new additions to the team are already leaving their mark, injecting goals, energy, and belief into every match. This result not only lifts confidence but also sends a clear message: Paro FC Women are here to challenge for the very top. As we move into a new week, the men prepare for the AFC Challenge League draw on Thursday, the women carry momentum into their next league battles, and the entire country can take pride in seeing Bhutanese football rise higher than ever. Stay tuned to Paro FC’s official channels for photos, highlights, and full coverage of the AFC draw. The Tigers are only just beginning.
Paro FC Weekly Roundup
The roar of the Thunder Dragon grows louder from the Paro Valley as Paro FC delivers another week of triumphs that unite our hometown and inspire the nation! On August 12, 2025, our men’s team lit up Changlimithang Stadium with a heart-stopping 1-0 victory over Afghanistan’s Abu Muslim Farah FC in the AFC Challenge League Preliminary Stage. With seconds left in stoppage time, captain Evans Asante, finishing a flawless assist from local hero Nima Wangdi, scored the decisive goal that sent Paro FC into the AFC Challenge League group stage for the second straight year. The win also secured USD 100,000 in prize money, a milestone that proves once again that a team from Paro can compete with Asia’s best. Under Technical Director Puspalal Sharma, a squad built around Paro’s very own talents—Nima Wangdi, Kinga Wangchuk, and Tsheltrim Namgyel—together with our international warriors—outclassed the 2025 Afghan Champions League winners, marking another proud chapter for Paro football. Just four days later, on August 16, 2025, our Paro FC Women’s team showed the same spirit and fight. Against defending champions RTC FC Women, they battled to a hard-earned draw on artificial turf in the BoB Bhutan Women’s National League. A thunderous long-range strike from Bangladeshi star Sumaya lit up the game and kept Paro FC Women unbeaten at the top of the league. With 76 goals scored and only three conceded in five matches—including their record-breaking 28-0 victory over Samtse Women’s Club earlier this season—Coach Gopal Rai’s side continues to prove that Paro is the beating heart of women’s football in the country. The road ahead remains demanding. In the 2025 BoB Bhutan Premier League, our men, already five-time champions, march on with the goal of reaffirming their dominance at home before stepping once again onto Asia’s grand stage in the AFC Challenge League group stage. Meanwhile, our women aim to defend their top spot and set new standards for the game. Paro FC is more than a football club—it’s the pride of our valley, the symbol of our community, and the team that carries Paro’s fire into every battle. Together, let’s rally behind our men and women as they fight for glory in the BoB Premier League, the Women’s National League, and the AFC Challenge League. The Thunder Dragon’s flame burns brightest in Paro—let’s show Asia the power of our valley! ParoFC #ParoPride #ThunderDragon #AFCCL #BOBPremierLeague #WomensNationalLeague
Tenzin Jamtsho, Vice President
In a thrilling Preliminary Stage clash of the AFC Challenge League 2025/26, Paro FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Abu Muslim Farah FC of Afghanistan on August 12, 2025, at Changlimithang Stadium. The winning goal came in the dying moments of the match from Paro FC captain Evans Asante, sealing a historic win for the Bhutanese side. Interview with Tenzin Jamtsho, Vice President of Paro FC 1. What was going through your mind before and after the match? “Before the match, I knew it was going to be a tough challenge. Abu Muslim is a strong side, and we had to be at our very best. There was excitement, but also a sense of responsibility. We were representing not just Paro FC, but Bhutan on the AFC stage. After the match, I felt immense pride in our players and coaching staff. They executed the game plan with heart, discipline, and unity. The win reflects the hard work put in by everyone on and off the field.” 2. What does winning the match mean to the team? This victory means everything to us. It’s more than just progressing to the next stage. It’s proof that Bhutanese football can compete and succeed at the continental level. For the players, it’s a huge confidence boost, for the fans, it’s a moment of pride, and for Paro FC, it’s a milestone in our journey to grow stronger and aim higher. 3. What is your way forward for the upcoming challenges? We know the road ahead will only get tougher. Our next opponents will be even stronger, and we must prepare with even more focus. The plan is to analyze this match, work on the areas that need improvement, and maintain our fighting spirit. We will continue to train hard, strengthen our squad depth, and ensure that we enter the next round fully prepared, both mentally and physically. 4. Sir, what is your message to everyone To our fans, thank you for your unwavering support. You are our twelfth men. Your cheers gave our players the extra push they needed. To our players and staff, I’m proud of each one of you. Your dedication has brought us this far. To the board of directors of Paro FC: thank you to all nine brothers who stand hand in hand, united by a common goal and passion. Your unwavering trust and faith in each other are pillars of every success we have achieved. To the Bhutan Football Federation and Bhutan Olympic Committee, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support in every aspect. A special thanks goes to our dynamic President, Dasho Ugyen Tshechu Dorji, for his exceptional leadership. And to Bhutanese football as a whole, this win shows what we can achieve together. Let’s keep believing, keep working, and keep dreaming bigger. The journey has just begun. With this, Paro FC will now play the AFC Challenge League group stage. For more information, visit Paro FC club’s official Facebook and Instagram pages
Behind the Scenes HEROES
From the players on the field to the countless hands working tirelessly off it — you made it happen. To the Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) – Hon’ble Dasho Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, whose unwavering vision and leadership continue to inspire Bhutanese sport, and SG Sonam Karma Tshering – thank you for your guidance, approvals, transport, and media support. To the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) – Dasho Ugen Tsechup, whose dedication and leadership continue to elevate Bhutanese football to greater heights; General Secretary Ugyen Wangchhuk, a true friend of the clubs and a champion for Bhutanese football; and all technical and support staff – for live streaming, media, security, officials, match analysis, technical expertise, goalkeeping coach, pitch preparation, medical teams, ball boys, LGS, LMO, LSO, photographer, and training grounds. To the RBP and Dessup – for deploying over 150 dedicated security personnel to keep the event safe. To our hospitality partners – Namgay Heritage Hotel, Seva Hotel, Druk Noryang Hotel, and TNR – for ensuring comfort for the away team, home team, and match officials. To our transport partners – Yana Expedition Inc., Keys to Bhutan, BFF, BOC, and every individual who stepped in. To JDW National Referral Hospital and the BFF medical team – for ambulance services and medical support. To the Department of Immigration and the Foreign Ministry, for seamless approvals and assistance. To all players and the coaching and non-coaching team of Paro FC, for giving 101% in preparation, heart, and performance, both on and off the pitch. To the families of our players, coaches, and management – for your patience and encouragement. To all Paro FC, Bhutanese, and international football fans – for your love, support, blessings, and prayers. To all our volunteers – the ticket counter teams, banner-fixating team, staff from TNR, Druk Noryang Hotel, Namgay Heritage Hotel, and every shop that helped sell tickets and jerseys – your efforts fueled the spirit of the game. To the printing press and designer – for tireless, last-minute support in making everything look perfect. To all celebrities, singers, and influencers who promoted the match for free – your generosity and reach gave Bhutanese football a louder voice. To our sponsors – Smart Education Consultancy and Placement Firm, Green Kitchen, and Chharee – for believing in us and standing by us. To all Board Members – for your trust, commitment, and belief in taking Bhutanese football to the next level. Yesterday, Bhutanese football shone — not just because of the 11 players on the pitch, but because of an entire nation standing together, including the Bhutanese diaspora. We ask for the same love and roaring support as we move forward in the AFC Challenge League. Let’s keep showing the world what Bhutan’s heart looks like — united, passionate, and unstoppable. Let’s go Bhutan! Let’s go Paro FC!
“Tigers Roar to Victory in Thrilling Clash against Ugyen Academy FC. Now All Eyes on AFC Showdown…”
What an electrifying start to the second leg for Paro FC. Returning to the Woochu Sports Arena, the Tigers put on a spirited performance against Ugyen Academy FC on Saturday, August 2nd, and edged out a 3-2 win to uphold our incredible unbeaten streak—10 matches and counting! First Half Brilliance and Grit Paro FC entered the match on the front foot, dictating play with commanding ball possession from the first whistle. Our attacking efforts finally paid off in the 27th minute when Timothy, starting deep in our half, dazzled the crowd with a surging solo run past defenders and coolly slotted home the opener. Just before halftime, however, Ugyen Academy FC managed to bring the score level with a penalty, leaving it 1-1 at the break. Second Half—Fireworks and Fighting Spirit The intensity only increased after the restart. Timothy was back at it in the 48th minute, this time finishing smartly from a brilliant first-touch pass by Evans Asante. Not to be outdone, Asante himself made it three for the Tigers with a thunderous strike after Phurba Wangchuk set him up for a one-on-one opportunity. UA FC managed to pull one back late, but Paro’s steely defense ensured the 3-2 scoreline held firm at full time. With this result, Paro FC maintains a flawless unbeaten record across ten thrilling matches this season. Now, the focus shifts to the continental stage as we prepare for the AFC Preliminary match on August 12th against Afghanistan’s Abu Muslim FC, where the fans are expected to throng Changlimithang Stadium in massive numbers to support the Tigers as they chase new glory. Let’s keep this momentum rolling—see you all on the 12th for another historic night