Bangladesh Women’s National Football Team will embark on a historic journey at 2 am on Thursday, departing for Australia to compete in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time. On the eve of their departure, the Ministry of Youth and Sports issued an inspiring message from State Minister Aminul Haque, who described the team’s qualification as a golden chapter in the country’s sporting history, reports Daily Sun.
The AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be held in Australia from 1 to 21 March, where Bangladesh will compete on Asia’s biggest stage for the first time.
In his congratulatory message, Aminul Haque extended heartfelt wishes to all players, coaches, and officials.
“From March 1-21, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup will be held on Australian soil. Our women’s football team is set to compete on Asia’s highest stage for the first time, ushering in a golden chapter in Bangladesh’s sporting history,” he said.
On behalf of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, he conveyed sincere congratulations to the squad and team management.
“Our girls have repeatedly proven that with indomitable spirit and hard work, any obstacle can be overcome. Crossing the boundaries of South Asia, they are now set to face Asia’s best teams. This is not only a milestone for women’s football development but also a unique reflection of women’s empowerment in building a sports-friendly Bangladesh,” the minister added.
Expressing confidence in the team, he said he believes the players will uphold the honour of the red and green flag in Australia.
“Beyond victory or defeat, your fighting spirit will showcase Bangladesh’s identity to the world. Play from the heart, with your best skills, for the country. I wish the women’s football team every success in this journey,” the message concluded.
Bangladesh have been drawn in a tough group alongside nine-time champions China, three-time winners North Korea, and Uzbekistan.
They will open their campaign against China on 3 March, face North Korea on 6 March, and take on Uzbekistan on 9 March.
In the 12-team tournament, the top two teams from each group, along with the best two third-placed teams, will advance to the quarter-finals. The competition also serves as a qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
After departing Dhaka late Thursday, the team will travel via Thailand and are scheduled to arrive in Sydney on the evening of 20 February. They will hold their preparatory camp at Valentine Sports Park from 22 February and are expected to play a closed-door friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers around 26 February before beginning their historic Asian Cup campaign.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
