Bangladesh stepped up their preparations for the Women’s Asian Cup as Swedish expatriate footballer Anika Rania Siddiqui rejoined the national squad in Dhaka on 16 February 2026.
Head coach Peter Butler has finalised a 26-member squad for the tournament in Australia, taking advantage of the Asian Football Confederation’s decision to allow three additional players beyond the usual 23-player limit. Although the Bangladesh Football Federation has yet to make the announcement official, Anika’s inclusion is understood to have been confirmed following fitness assessments.
The midfielder arrived in the capital at around 9:00 am and reported directly to the team hotel. She did not train on the day of her arrival, but Australian fitness coach Lord’s evaluation reportedly satisfied Butler that she is ready to be part of the travelling squad.
Standing out as a rare European-based talent for the women’s national side, she becomes only the second expatriate player to be included in the squad after Japan-born Matsushima Sumaya
Anika had previously spent four days in Dhaka on trial before returning to Sweden. Her recall signals Butler’s continued emphasis on youth and overseas-based talent as he reshapes the national side ahead of its first appearance at Asia’s premier women’s tournament.
In contrast, several experienced figures remain absent. Senior players such as Sabina Khatun and Masura Parvin have not been recalled following last year’s internal dispute within the squad, despite recent performances in futsal competitions.
Bangladesh are scheduled to depart for Australia late on 19 February 2026. The team will hold a training camp at Valentine Sports Park in Sydney before facing Western United in a preparatory fixture on 25 February 2026.
