“This victory means everything to us.” — Tenzin Jamtsho, Vice President of Paro FC
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
