Bangladesh captain Afeida Khandaker has pledged that her side will give their all as they prepare for their maiden appearance at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, approaching the historic occasion with excitement rather than fear.
Set to face defending champions China women's national football team in their opening match, Bangladesh enter the tournament as the lowest-ranked team, with little external pressure placed upon them. But for Afeida, the challenge represents an opportunity to inspire the nation.
“We are not feeling pressured even though this is our debut,” said the 19-year-old defender. “We want to make the people of Bangladesh proud. China are a really strong team. They are the defending champions, but on the field we do not see them as that. We are ready to give our best.
“This is the first time we are participating in the tournament and playing against one of the best teams in Asia. Whatever the coach instructs, we will do our best to follow.”
Afeida is part of a promising new generation of women footballers in Bangladesh. She played a key role in the team’s impressive qualification campaign, where they topped Group C ahead of favourites Myanmar, conceding just once in three matches.
The success was followed by another milestone as Bangladesh also qualified for the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup for the first time, earning a place at Thailand 2026. The twin achievements have helped boost interest in women’s football back home.
“Since we arrived here, our team have received excellent facilities. Australia has welcomed us warmly, so we are certainly enjoying the atmosphere,” Afeida added. “The conditions and pitches back home have improved a lot over the past few years. Hopefully the progress continues so that we can keep improving.”
Afeida was appointed captain of the senior national team during a tri-nation series in Jordan in May 2025. Her rise followed a turbulent period earlier that year, when 18 senior players — including former skipper Sabina Khatun — protested against head coach Peter Butler and boycotted the training camp. Several experienced players were subsequently omitted from the squad, paving the way for Afeida to assume the leadership role — a position she has retained since.
Now leading Bangladesh into uncharted territory, the young skipper hopes her side’s fearless approach and growing experience will mark the beginning of a new chapter for women’s football in the country.
