North Korea prove too strong for Bangladesh

Two goals from Kim Kyong-yong and several sharp saves from goalkeeper Mile Akter highlighted a one-sided contest as North Korea beat Bangladesh 5-0 in their second Group B match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 at Western Sydney Stadium on Friday, with VAR also ruling out two Korean goals.

Bangladesh spent most of the match on the defensive and struggled to replicate the characteristic proactive approach they had shown against China in their opening game.

North Korea dominated possession from the outset, stretching the pitch with fluid passing and constant movement. Mile was called into action repeatedly and produced several key saves to keep the scoreline level early on.

Despite Bangladesh’s resistance, and despite coach Peter Butler making three changes in the 40th minute -- bringing in Sapna Rani, Anika Rania, and Umehla Marma -- the pressure eventually told. In a pattern similar to their opener against China, Bangladesh conceded twice late in the first half.

North Korea, playing in all whites, extended their advantage soon after the restart when a penalty made it 3-0 after Bangladesh captain Afeida Khandoker conceded a foul inside the box in the 50th minute.

The ninth-ranked Koreans maintained relentless pressure, adding two more goals -- the last one coming in the 89th minute.

Bangladesh -- ranked 112 on the other hand -- who had already made 10 clearances within the opening half hour, rarely threatened going forward and were often forced into hurried clearances under sustained pressure.

Butler's charges next play their third and final group game, against Uzbekistan, on March 9 in Perth.