Bangladesh to face Thailand in the afternoon

The Bangladesh women's football team is getting a chance to test their preparation before the Asian Cup. On Friday (October 24), Afida Khandakera will face powerful Thailand at the Thonburi University Football Ground in Bangkok at 4 pm. This will be the first friendly match between the two teams, and the second match will be held on October 27.

The big 9-0 defeat against Thailand a decade ago is now just history. The difference between Bangladesh at that time and the current team is sky-high. This time, the girls are taking to the field with confidence. After a long practice in Chittagong, Peter Butler's disciples are ready to show their new form.

Bangladesh women's team goalkeeper coach Masud Ahmed Ujjal said, "We are trying to fix our weak points and focus on the opponent's strengths. The girls are working as the coach (Peter Butler) is instructing. We are all trying to get the best out of them."

Goalkeeper Rupana Chakma said in a confident voice, "We are ready for the match. I want to give my best. Of course, our goal is to win."

Thailand is ranked 53rd in the women's FIFA rankings, while Bangladesh is ranked 104th. That is, a difference of 51 steps. Still, confidence, not fear, is the main motivation in the red-green camp.

Bangladesh will face China, North Korea and Uzbekistan in the main stage of the Asian Cup. Therefore, the coaching staff and management are seeing these two friendly matches against a strong team like Thailand as a big learning opportunity for Peter Butler's team.

The Bangladesh women's team last played an international match three months ago. Therefore, the formal preparation for next year's AFC Women's Asian Cup begins with this friendly match.

Incidentally, Bangladesh lost 9-0 to Thailand in the 2013 Asian Cup qualifiers. The two teams are facing each other again after a decade, but this time it is a completely new generation of Bangladesh team. After Sabina Khatun's time, new stars like Afaida, Rituparna, and Rupna are ready to change history.