Malaysia defeated Bangladesh 1-0 in the opening match of the Tri-Nation Series at the National Stadium on Wednesday. Malaysia coach Joel Cornelli said his team scored by taking advantage of the large spaces behind Bangladesh’s defence.
Bangladesh women’s coach Peter Butler accepted full responsibility for the result. “I take all responsibility for selection and results, good or bad. I want to make that clear. I am not here to make excuses,” he said at the post-match press conference.
He explained his team’s strategy of playing a high defensive line and defended his players for the conceded goal. “I will not blame anyone for the goal. It had nothing to do with our defence. When you push forward against a team that plays deep, risk and reward come with it,” Butler said.
Butler also spoke about issues within the squad. “Some players were not at their best. There were characters behind the scenes and even inside the camp trying to disrupt things. It is difficult to develop young players like Munki and Sagorika in such an environment,” he said without naming anyone.
He addressed questions about the exclusion of senior players, including Sabina Khatun and Masura Parveen. Butler had already stated that there was no place for them in the squad and requested that journalists not revisit the topic.
The coach admitted the team’s performance was below expectations compared to the Asian Cup Qualifiers. “I take responsibility for everything. I cannot take responsibility for people outside trying to upset the team. You know who they are. They were close to some players. This is how things work here,” he said.
Butler warned that he could leave if disruptions continue. “I am trying to build the team. If the BFF wants a new coach, I can go back to England tomorrow. While I am here, I will continue blooding young players and remove those with toxic attitudes,” he said.
He concluded by praising the team’s effort despite the result. “I thought the team played well and showed good football,” Butler said.
