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Khandaker vows to make Bangladesh proud

Khandaker vows to make Bangladesh proud

Sydney: It is understandable that Afeida Khandaker is feeling over the moon as Bangladesh prepare for their debut match at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ with the defender approaching the tournament with excitement rather than fear.
The lowest ranked team in the tournament, high hopes are not placed on Bangladesh for a prolonged run in the competition but that is precisely why there is no pressure on the team with Khandaker determined to make her people proud.
“We are not feeling pressured even though this is our debut,” said Khandaker. “We want to make the people of Bangladesh proud. 

“China are a really strong team. They are the defending champions but on the field, we do not see them as that. We are ready to give our best.

“This is the first time that we are participating in the tournament and playing against one of the best teams in Asia. Whatever the coach instructs, we will do our best to follow.”
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The 19-year-old Khandaker is part of a growing generation of women footballers in Bangladesh with the defender starring in a qualifying campaign that saw them top Group C ahead of the more fancied Myanmar, conceding only once in their three matches.

Khandaker and company then built on AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualification with another successful qualifying campaign in the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup™ where they will also be making their debut at Thailand 2026.
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The two hugely successful campaigns have seen a growth of interest in the women’s game with the Rajshahi Stars FC player hopeful it will lead to more improvement back home.

“Since we came here, our team has got great facilities. Australia has welcomed us very well so we are certainly enjoying the atmosphere. 

“The condition and fields back home have changed a lot in the past few years, hopefully the changes can keep happening so that we can continually improve.”

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