Bangladesh underdogs but not without a plan, insists Butler

Bangladesh women's football head coach Peter Butler struck a tone of cautious optimism ahead of the team's departure for Myanmar, where they will compete in Group C of the AFC Women's Asia Cup Qualifiers.

Facing higher-ranked opposition and with only the group winners progressing to the final round, Butler was careful not to make bold predictions, instead highlighting the recent progress his side has made.

Currently ranked 128th in the world, Bangladesh face a formidable challenge in a group featuring hosts Myanmar (ranked 55th), Bahrain (92nd), and Turkmenistan (141st). While expectations have grown following spirited performances against stronger sides such as Jordan and Indonesia, Butler acknowledged the scale of the task ahead.

"We are probably the underdogs," Butler told reporters during a press conference at the BFF House on Monday, on the eve of the team's early-morning departure for Myanmar.

He stressed that belief and adaptability would be crucial, saying, "Sometimes you've got to change systems… be flexible."

Butler credited the team's development in recent months, noting a significant improvement in work ethic and tactical discipline, particularly when out of possession. He believes Bangladesh are now better equipped to challenge more experienced teams with their energy, tactical awareness, and discipline.

Despite a 5–0 defeat to Myanmar in 2018, Butler played down the relevance of past results. He instead emphasised the quality and promise within the current squad, which he described as "exciting" and full of emerging talent. Alongside the senior side, promising Under-17 and Under-20 teams signal brighter prospects for women's football in Bangladesh.

Preparation time was limited, with just 13 training sessions — many focused on yoga and recovery following the Jordan tour — but Butler praised the players for their commitment and willingness to embrace new methods.

"I'm not an old-school coach; I actually embrace new ideas," he said, expressing confidence in captain Afeida Khandokar and the team she leads.

Afeida, 18, spoke of her desire to reach the next round, despite the quick turnaround between tours. "We didn't get much time after coming back from Jordan," said the composed defender. "But we trained according to the coach's instructions."

The squad features three changes from the side that played against Jordan and Indonesia, with goalkeepers Swarna Rani Mandal and Mile Akter added, and experienced defender Nilufar Yasmin Nila returning in place of Shanti Mardi.