Ahead of their Group B clash against North Korea, Bangladesh’s women’s football team balanced training with leisure, exploring some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks.
On 4 March 2026, the players spent the morning at Jubilee Stadium for light training and recovery sessions in preparation for Friday’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup match. In the afternoon, they visited the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, taking photos and enjoying the sights. Bangladesh Football Federation president Tabith Awal accompanied the team throughout the day.
Bangladesh currently sit third in the group after a 2-0 defeat to nine-time champions China, while North Korea, who beat Uzbekistan 3-0, lead the table. Making their tournament debut, Bangladesh remain underdogs against the three-time champions, but the team showed confidence following their competitive display against China.
Goalkeeping coach Masud Ahmed Ujjal highlighted the focus on recovery and tactical review. “Today we completed a full recovery session and will work on mistakes from the first match. We will also have a video session. Against China, the team executed the plan on the field. The players have shown that they take the coaching staff’s guidance seriously,” he said.
Ujjal also emphasised the importance of the upcoming match against North Korea. “The next game is even more important for us. With a bit of luck and proper execution of our plan, we can aim to secure at least one point. We will work on this today and tomorrow and hope the team performs well,” he added.
After training, the team explored the Opera House and had previously visited the Royal Botanic Gardens by bus. Players Afida Khandakar, Monika Chakma, Kohati Kisku, Rituparna Chakma, Shaheda Akter Ripa, Aerin Khatun, Mile Akter, and Sheuli Azim enjoyed their sightseeing time, dressing comfortably and embracing the tourist experience. Media covering the Women’s Asian Cup documented the team’s enjoyment with photos and videos, though the players did not speak to reporters.
Tabith Awal remained alongside the team, providing support and insight. Reflecting on the China match, he praised the team’s performance while lamenting the disallowed goal from Rituparna.
“The team played well against China. If Rituparna’s goal had stood, it could have changed a lot. That moment surprised China and earned our team respect. I hope everyone continues to perform strongly in the upcoming matches,” Awal said.
