Bangladesh head coach Peter Butler is determined not to alter his side’s brave attacking style despite knowing they will be up against the odds against defending champions China women's national football team in their opening fixture of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Sydney on Tuesday.
While Bangladesh are competing in the tournament for the first time as the lowest-ranked side, China remain the most successful team in Asian Cup history, having lifted the trophy nine times, most recently in 2022.
“We’ll have a game plan and whatever the result, it will reflect how we want to play. We will not be parking the bus, whatever the result, because that’s not how we play,” said Butler.
There is already a sense of achievement in having qualified for the tournament, and as Bangladesh prepare to make their maiden appearance on the continental stage, there will be no shift in principles.
Under Butler, Bangladesh have embraced a new generation, naming 11 teenagers in their 26-player squad, with none over the age of 24.
“We have arrived here for the most historic game in Bangladesh women’s football,” said Butler. “The girls did well to qualify and we’re here to lay the footprint and foundation for future events because these are the tournaments you want to compete in.”
The English coach, at the same time, urged realism regarding the outcome against China.
“We are mixing with the big girls now. We have to be realistic and pragmatic about what we want to achieve. I honestly believe we come here not with huge expectations but with realistic ambitions.
“They are a really good team. They are well coached. It’s David versus Goliath. We are not at their level, but football is a funny game.”
Butler’s side will face three-time champions North Korea in their second match at the same venue on March 6.