Bangladesh are set for a daunting yet historic challenge as they begin their maiden campaign at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup against some of Asia’s most formidable sides.
The debutants have been drawn in Group B alongside defending champions China, three-time winners North Korea, and Uzbekistan. It marks Bangladesh’s first-ever appearance at the continent’s premier women’s football competition.
Bangladesh will open their Group B campaign on March 3 against holders China at Western Sydney Stadium in Sydney. The clash will pit the newcomers against the most successful team in Asian Cup history, with China chasing a record-extending 10th title after lifting their ninth crown in 2022.
Their second group match is scheduled for March 6 at the same venue against North Korea, a side returning to the Asian Cup after more than a decade away. The Koreans arrive with a reputation rebuilt on youth success, having recently claimed global titles at Under-17 and Under-20 level, making them one of the most dangerous opponents in the group.
Bangladesh will conclude their group-stage journey on March 9 against Uzbekistan at Perth Rectangular Stadium in Perth.
For Bangladesh, the tournament represents both a breakthrough and a measuring stick. Having qualified for the Asian Cup for the first time, the team will look to test themselves against established continental powers and gain invaluable experience on the big stage. The matches are expected to provide crucial exposure as the side continues its long-term development in women’s football.
With Group B featuring two former champions and a steadily improving Uzbekistan, Bangladesh face a steep learning curve. Yet the campaign also offers an opportunity to announce their arrival in Asia’s elite circle and lay the foundation for future growth at continental level.
Chasing glory
Defending champions China will begin their title defence at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup determined to revive past glories, but face stiff competition from traditional heavyweights Japan, hosts Australia and resurgent North Korea.
The 12-team tournament kicks off on Sunday in the Western Australian city of Perth, when Sam Kerr’s Australia meet the Philippines in the opening match. Organisers are hopeful the event will recreate the buzz generated by the 2023 Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, which drew record crowds and television audiences and marked a turning point for women’s football in the region.
China remain the most successful team in Asian Cup history, having lifted the trophy nine times. They last tasted success in 2022, edging South Korea 3-2 in the final in Mumbai. However, their dominance has waned in recent years and they now sit 17th in the FIFA rankings, far from the era when they were regular contenders on the global stage.
Head coach Ante Milicic acknowledged the challenge ahead as the Steel Roses attempt to defend their crown. “It will be a massive challenge,” said Milicic, who previously led Australia at the 2019 World Cup. “There is more pressure now because of past success. This is an opportunity to rebuild and produce players and teams the nation can be proud of.”
North Korea return to the Asian Cup for the first time since finishing runners-up in 2010, bringing with them a promising new generation of players. Coached by Ri Song Ho, their squad features several members of the team that won the Women’s Under-17 World Cup last year, following their triumph at the Under-20 World Cup in 2024. They begin their campaign against Uzbekistan on Tuesday.
With established powers and emerging challengers in the mix, the tournament promises high-stakes encounters as Asia’s top teams chase continental glory and momentum ahead of future global competitions.
