Bangladesh’s women’s football team have set off for Australia ahead of their debut appearance at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, with head coach Peter Butler openly admitting that preparation gaps have left the squad playing catch-up. The team gathered at the Bangladesh Football Federation headquarters on Thursday afternoon to finalise plans before departing at 2.00 am on Friday.
Butler highlighted the challenges posed by limited resources. “You cannot judge anyone properly without giving them the right resources,” he said. “Some people in the federation don’t understand football at this level. Sometimes you paper over the cracks with wins, but the cracks remain.” He also expressed concern over the artificial surfaces used domestically, noting that transitioning from 4G turf to natural grass in Australia will require rapid adjustment.
The 26-player squad includes experienced campaigners such as Ritu Porna Chakma, Monika Chakma and Maria Manda, alongside Sweden-based midfielder Anika Rania Siddiqui, who will make her debut. Butler explained his decision to include Anika: “I watched her profile and her matches, and they impressed me. Her potential ceiling is very high, and that convinced me.”
Despite preparation gaps, morale in the camp remains positive. Ritu Porna shared a photo on social media hinting at the team’s journey, while Butler and his players focused on tactical readiness rather than lofty expectations. The coach stressed a balanced approach against Asia’s elite, signalling restraint against stronger sides: “We cannot press China, Korea or Uzbekistan for 90 minutes. If you give big teams too much space, they punish you badly.”
Bangladesh open their campaign against China on 3 March in Sydney, a match expected to provide more lessons than results. The encounter against Uzbekistan on 9 March in Perth may prove decisive, with both teams appearing closely matched in strength. A victory there could see Bangladesh advance as one of the two best runners-up in the group.
Butler refused to speculate on World Cup qualification, instead emphasising preparation and discipline. “Do not underestimate Uzbekistan. They are strong physically and technically. I know people there, and they are very hard to beat,” he said. His focus remains on ensuring the team adapts quickly and competes intelligently at every stage.
Officials from the Bangladesh Football Federation acknowledged the difficulties in arranging an overseas camp. Women’s wing head Mahfuza Akhter Kiron explained, “We explored Japan, but the temperature was extremely low at that time. I can propose plans, but there are higher authorities. If those plans are not executed, there is little I can do.”
Despite these hurdles, the squad has adjusted its plans, arriving in Australia earlier than initially scheduled in order to gain valuable practice time. Efforts are being made to organise a warm-up match against a local club in Sydney before the tournament begins.
