The Bangladesh women’s football team is busy with training ahead of the Asian Cup, with players making the most of their camp in Sydney.
Before flying to Australia, Afida, Rupna, and Monika had brief training sessions in Dhaka. Earlier plans for camps in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam did not come to fruition. The team has settled well in Sydney, enjoying productive practice sessions at Valentine Sports Park.
Monday marked the fourth day of warm-up sessions for the team. The national team’s hotel is conveniently located next to the training ground, eliminating the hassle of long commutes—a benefit highlighted by newcomer Alpi Akter.
In a video message shared by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), Alpi said: “It is very hot here. Bangladesh has not experienced this kind of heat yet. We are trying to adjust to the environment. Staying in one place, with the training ground and gym nearby, makes everything much easier. It is really good.”
Alpi has been in fine form, scoring 30 goals in 10 matches for her club in the latest Women’s Football League. She also shone in the SAFF Under-19 tournament, scoring seven goals—the performances that earned her a first call-up to the national team.
Excited about training with the senior squad, Alpi added: “Alhamdulillah, I have wanted for a long time to train and play with the national team. That wish has now been fulfilled. It feels great to practise with the seniors. The sessions have been very good, and I am learning a lot from them.”
Following the Sydney camp, the team will move to the AFC-designated hotel on 27 February. Bangladesh will face current champions China in their opening Asian Cup match on 3 March, followed by games against North Korea on 6 March in Sydney and Uzbekistan on 9 March in Perth.
