The Bangladesh women’s national football team have left for Australia to compete in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, marking their first appearance on Asia’s biggest stage.
The squad departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:50pm on 19 February, carrying the hopes of a nation as they prepare to open a new chapter in the country’s sporting history.
The tournament will be staged across three Australian cities from 1 March to 21 March, with Bangladesh drawn into a formidable group alongside some of Asia’s most decorated teams.
Bangladesh begin their campaign against nine-time champions China on 3 March. They will then face three-time winners North Korea on 6 March before concluding the group phase against Uzbekistan on 9 March, a side with five previous Asian Cup appearances.
While the gulf in experience and pedigree between Bangladesh and their opponents is considerable, head coach Peter Butler has expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation and mentality. The players, too, have spoken of their excitement at competing at this level for the first time.
At the airport, goalkeeper Swarna Rani Mondal said the team are satisfied with their preparations and urged supporters back home to follow and encourage them throughout the tournament.
