 Bermuda’s youth international Riley Khan has received a major vote of confidence after being called up in the National Squad for the upcoming Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers later this month.
The fleet-footed attacker, who has been honing her craft in the United States since March last year, was formally congratulated by her Florida-based school following the announcement. Khan is currently a standout at the Benfica Residential Academy, a high-performance programme situated on the sprawling campus of Saint Leo University in Tampa.
“Our very own Riley Khan has been called into the Bermuda National Team to play the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers,” the academy confirmed in a social media statement. The move to Florida has clearly paid dividends for the former Warwick Academy student, who was scouted while competing alongside boys in Bermuda's domestic leagues.
The upcoming tournament represents more than just a regional challenge; it is the vital first step on the pathway toward the next FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup. Bermuda will benefit from significant home support as they host the matches for Group B at the Flora Duffy South Field Stadium from January 24th to February 2nd.
The young Bermuda team face a demanding schedule against four regional rivals:
Panama
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Suriname
Bonaire
Khan’s inclusion adds significant firepower to the frontline. Before her move to the US, she was recognised as the Bermuda Football Association’s Under-13 Girls Player of the Year, earning a reputation as a diminutive but clinical finisher. Her experience in the professionalized environment of the Benfica Academy—which offers a blend of Portuguese footballing heritage and American academic excellence—is expected to be a cornerstone of Bermuda’s tactical approach.
The Benfica Residential Academy operates as a coeducational hub for elite talent in grades 9 through 12, utilizing Saint Leo University’s state-of-the-art facilities to develop players for the highest levels of global competition. For Khan, the transition from local club football to a residential academy in Florida has been a catalyst for growth.
"I am excited to see how much I improve throughout my time at the academy because it is such a professional experience," Khan noted upon her arrival in Tampa.
Now, the teenager returns to home soil with the weight of expectation. If Bermuda can navigate Group B and secure top spot, they will move one step closer to making history on the world stage. Local fans are encouraged to turn out in force at the National Sports Centre to support Khan and her teammates as they begin their quest for World Cup qualification.
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