Nepal national team captain and star striker Sabitra Bhandari, famously known as SAMBA, has officially joined New Zealand’s Wellington Phoenix FC.

The prolific forward, who recently parted ways with French club EA Guingamp, was unveiled by the Phoenix on Thursday. This move marks another big step in Bhandari’s already impressive international club career, having previously played in Nepal, India, and France.

Speaking to the club’s official media, Bhandari expressed her excitement, saying, “I am really excited to come to the Phoenix, score lots of goals, and make the fans super happy.”

Bhandari, who holds a remarkable record of 66 goals in 60 matches for the Nepal women's national team, has become a symbol of hope and pride for Nepali football. Her natural finishing, speed, and goal-scoring instincts have made her one of South Asia’s most feared forwards.

Wellington Phoenix compete in the A-League Women, the top-tier professional league in Australia and New Zealand, and Bhandari's arrival is expected to bolster their attacking line significantly.

Nepali fans have taken to social media to congratulate the striker, wishing her all the best in her new chapter. With this latest move, SAMBA continues to fly the Nepali flag high in global football.