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. 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. Bangladesh goalkeeper Mile Akter impressed with a number of crucial saves against both China and North Korea, drawing special praise from the coach. 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.

Source: Dhaka Tribune March 06, 2026 12:13 UTC