Bangladesh head coach Peter Butler expressed pride in his players despite their 5-0 defeat to North Korea in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on Friday, describing the match as “a real footballing lesson” for the debutants.
It was Bangladesh’s second match in their maiden Asian Cup campaign after suffering a 2-0 loss to defending champions China in their opening Group B encounter.
Despite the heavy margin against three-time champions North Korea, the women in red and green had earlier earned praise for their spirited display against nine-time champions China.
“We played an absolutely fantastic team today, probably one of the best, if not the best, in Asian football,” Butler said after the match. “We could not compete with them, and it’s not a disgrace to be beaten 5-0, 6-0 or 7-0. I can’t criticise the girls; they gave everything they had.”
Reflecting on the gap in quality, Butler admitted his side received a harsh but valuable lesson against the formidable opponents.
“We were given a real footballing lesson. In terms of strength and technical ability, they were streets ahead of us. We have to be honest with ourselves,” he said. “I’m proud of what the girls have done, and it’s clear we have a long way to go, but they are a smashing bunch of girls.”
The English coach also pointed to the physical difference between the two sides.
“Even if you look at North Korea’s athletic profile — their physical presence — we just couldn’t contain it. Some of our girls wilted in the sun, and we didn’t do ourselves justice,” Butler added.
Bangladesh goalkeeper Mile Akter impressed with a number of crucial saves against both China and North Korea, drawing special praise from the coach.
“Mile is a real character,” Butler said. “She’s a soldier, with soft tenacity and enthusiasm. She was really put to the sword today and deserves every opportunity. She has a bright future if she keeps her feet on the ground.”
With North Korea assured of a place in the quarter-finals after two emphatic victories, Bangladesh will face Uzbekistan on March 9 in Perth. The Tigresses will hope to secure a positive result to keep alive their chances of reaching the last eight as one of the two best third-placed teams from the three groups.
