Butler slams players’ attitude after 3-0 defeat to Thailand

Bangladesh women's football team coach Peter Butler expressed anger and disappointment over what he described as "a lack of respect and bad manners" from some of his players following a 3-0 defeat against Thailand in the first of two FIFA international friendlies on Friday.

The hosts took the lead within the opening minute and doubled their advantage five minutes into the second half before sealing victory with a third goal four minutes from time. Ranked 51 places above Bangladesh in the FIFA standings, Thailand dominated proceedings throughout the match, and if not for a number of saves from goalkeeper Rupna Chakma, the margin of defeat could have been bigger, according to a report from the Bangladesh Football Federation.

The game, played at a university ground in Bangkok, left Butler questioning the status and conditions of the fixture.

"I don't know whether we were playing a Tier 1 friendly because we played at a university in an environment where the lights weren't strong enough," Butler said in a video message shared by the BFF. "It didn't feel like a national team game. It felt more like a development fixture. We have to be careful when organising games like this and ensure everything is up to standard."

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Butler did not hold back in his post-match criticism, taking issue with what he perceived as poor attitude and discipline among some of his players.

"I think a few girls came with the wrong attitude, and I won't tolerate sloppiness," he said. "If people want to play for me and represent the country, they can't come with an attitude that's not befitting of national team football."

The former West Ham United midfielder, who has banished several senior players following a boycott controversy, warned that he would take similar action again if necessary.

"If people want to come and test me, let them test me. It's happened before, and if it happens again, I'll stand firm. I will not tolerate a lack of respect and bad manners," Butler declared.

Bangladesh will play their second friendly against Thailand on Monday, where Butler will be looking for a stronger response from his players.