'The girls are on a march': Butler hails 'perception-changing' performance

Bangladesh delivered a resounding statement of intent with a 7-0 demolition of Bahrain in their Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers match in Yangon on Sunday night.

Speaking after the match, coach Peter Butler praised the players' preparation and commitment:

"We had good preparation in terms of the training that has gone well. The girls have applied themselves brilliantly. Like I've said for months now, we've got a really, really good work ethic within the camp."

The team's attacking quality was on full display, dispelling any previous doubts about their ability to convert chances into goals, Butler noted. 

"I know at times people have criticised us for not scoring goals, but I always knew goals were going to come, especially in this team when you've got players such as Tohura (Khatun), Shamsunnahar Jr, Ritu (Porna Chakma), Monika (Chakma)," Butler explained. "Maria (Manda) tonight I thought was outstanding as well; they all were."

Peter Butler with the coaching staff and players before kickoff. Photo: BFF

Looking ahead, Bangladesh face a stern test against Myanmar, a side Butler expects to pose an altogether different challenge. "I do believe Myanmar will present a completely different challenge. They're more technically gifted. They'll have a partisan crowd behind them. But we'll be ready for them."

The Englishman expressed hope that the team's performances would help shift perceptions about women's football in Bangladesh. 

"There's a lot of people maybe starting to sit up and think now about Bangladesh women's football. Maybe it's not always been the case where it's all been about men's football. The girls are on a march. We've got momentum. We're pushing the truck down the road and it's gathering momentum," he said. "It's great to see the girls do the country proud and hopefully we put a few smiles on a few people's faces."