The Bangladesh women’s national football team have touched down in Australia as they gear up for their maiden appearance at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, marking a landmark moment in the country’s sporting history.
After departing on Thursday night, the squad completed a long journey before arriving in Sydney on Friday evening. The tournament, Asia’s premier women’s football competition, begins on 1 March, with Bangladesh set to open their Group B campaign against nine-time champions China on 3 March.
Bangladesh face a stern test in Group B, where they will also meet three-time Asian Cup winners North Korea and Uzbekistan. The fixtures against China and North Korea will be held in Sydney, while the match against Uzbekistan is scheduled to take place in Perth.
The team have travelled early to acclimatise to Australian conditions and are expected to play a friendly against a local side as part of their final preparations. Coaching staff believe the additional training time will be crucial as the players adapt to different weather and pitch conditions.
Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque congratulated the team and expressed confidence in their ability to compete on Asia’s biggest stage.
“This is a golden chapter in Bangladesh’s sporting history. For the first time, our women’s football team will compete at the highest level in Asia,” he said in a message posted on the ministry’s official Facebook page.
He praised the players’ determination and growth beyond the South Asian stage, adding that their participation reflects the country’s commitment to developing women’s football.
“I believe you will carry the red and green with pride in Australia. Beyond wins and losses, your fighting spirit will showcase Bangladesh to the world,” he added.
For Bangladesh, the tournament represents more than just competition; it is a significant step forward in the evolution of women’s football in the country.
