Bangladesh head coach Peter James Butler believes his side gained more than they lost from their 2–0 defeat to reigning Women’s Asian Cup champions China, praising his players for their courage and commitment.
In their Group B fixture at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Tuesday, Bangladesh held China at bay for 44 minutes before conceding twice late in the first half. Despite the scoreline, Butler felt the performance reflected the team’s growing maturity on the continental stage.
“I want to congratulate China. They are one of the best teams in Asia — possibly the best — and they deserve credit,” Butler said after the match. “I thought the game might become one-sided, but we did not give up. I told the girls beforehand to play their natural game and show who we are.”
Butler stressed that his team had no intention of sitting back.
“We didn’t come here to defend deep and be victims. That’s not how I coach. I thought the girls were outstanding against a very strong side with real depth. We matched them for around 40 minutes before a brief lapse in concentration. Overall, I’m extremely proud. They honoured the shirt and showed how far we’ve come.”
The coach’s decision to start young goalkeeper Mili Akter ahead of experienced Rupna Chakma drew attention. While Mili had a few nervy moments, Butler stood firmly by his choice.
“Rupna is a very good player, but selection must remain competitive. Nobody has a guaranteed place — not Rupna, not Mili, not Swarna,” he said.
“Bangladesh women’s football has long searched for stability in goal. I thought Mili was outstanding overall. Yes, she made mistakes, but that’s part of development. I’m not afraid to make bold decisions.”
Both Chinese goals came from outside the penalty area, with the second taking a deflection off Kohati Kisku before finding the net. Bangladesh nearly took the lead in the 14th minute, only to be denied by a fine save from the Chinese goalkeeper.
Butler dismissed talk of fortune playing a role.
“Chances come and go. I don’t believe in luck — you create your own. Sometimes you play worse and win; sometimes you play well and lose. The important thing is that the girls never stopped fighting.”
Bangladesh showed improved composure after the break following a tactical reshuffle, and Butler is keen for his side to carry that belief forward.
“We adjusted in the second half and looked more settled. Now we must build on this. We take the same mindset into the match against North Korea. We may lose heavily, who knows? But we won’t change how we play.”
Bangladesh face North Korea in their second group match on Friday. North Korea opened their campaign with a 3–0 victory over Uzbekistan.
