SPORTS DESK : 6 AUGUST, 2025, 11:53 PM
Bangladesh Under-20 women’s national team head coach Peter Butler expressed satisfaction with his side’s performance after they began their AFC Under-20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign with a 3-1 win over Laos at the New Laos National Stadium in Vientiane on Wednesday evening. Cortesy by daily-sun.com
Forward Mst Sagorika starred with a brace, while midfielder Munki Akhter added another to give Bangladesh a perfect start to their campaign.
“I was pleased with the way we played. I thought we played some really good football,” said Butler.
Bangladesh now prepare to face Timor-Leste on Friday, who suffered a 9-0 defeat against Korea Republic in their opening game. Butler highlighted the importance of starting the campaign with a win ahead of that fixture.
“It is always nice to win your first game. It was important for us to get some points on the board before moving into the Timor-Leste game,” he said. “I thought we defended well. We were a bit risky at times, but it’s the way we play.”
Despite a solid performance, Bangladesh conceded a late goal in the 87th minute through a finish by Laos’ Anna Keo Onsy. Butler admitted disappointment at conceding, though he remained confident in his team’s control of the match.
“We gave a sloppy goal away, which I was disappointed with. But I don’t think they really troubled us if I’m being honest,” he remarked.
The victory follows Bangladesh’s recent success in winning the SAFF Under-20 Women’s Championship. Butler praised the squad’s development and underlined the value of this experience in their growth.
“The more success these girls have moving down the track within their respective careers, I really honestly believe that this is a great learning period for them,” he added.
With three points from their opening match, Bangladesh currently sit second in Group H, behind Korea Republic. To qualify for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, they must top their group or finish among the three best runners-up.
