After conceding an unexpected goal, the Bangladesh players suddenly lost their rhythm and never managed to find their way back into the match. As a result, Bangladesh could not make their long-awaited return to the National Stadium—after more than a decade—memorable. Peter James Butler’s side began their tri-nation series with a defeat to Malaysia.
Bangladesh suffered a 1-0 loss to Malaysia in the opening match of the tri-nation series at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Wednesday.
This was the women’s team’s first competitive match at the National Stadium since 2013. Back then, they lost 4-0 to the Philippines in an Asian Cup qualifier. Their return to the ground this time also ended in disappointment.
Bangladesh last faced Malaysia—who are ranked 92nd in the FIFA rankings—three years ago. In that two-match series at the Birshreshtha Shaheed Sepahi Mostafa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur, Bangladesh won the first match 6-0 before settling for a goalless draw in the second. But on natural grass this time, Malaysia showed their true quality.
Bangladesh started the match with good rhythm. In the seventh minute, they created a great chance through a well-built attacking move. Making her debut in the national colors, Sultana delivered a defence-splitting pass to Shamsunnahar Jr., who sent an across-the-box low cross from the right wing. Monika Chakma leaped in to head it, but she couldn’t make contact.
Shortly after, Monika was seen limping due to pain, with clear discomfort on her face. Yet, the midfielder—who has won two SAFF Women’s Championships—continued playing.
In the 29th minute, the visitors scored on a counterattack. As Nur Ainsah Binte Murad tried to control a long pass from her teammate, defender Kohati Kisku was right beside her. At the same moment, goalkeeper Rupna Chakma came off her line, causing miscommunication. Taking advantage, Nur beat Rupna with a left-footed shot into the far corner.
In the second half, Swapna Rani, Tahura Khatun, and Sagorika were brought on in place of Munki Akter, Sultana, and Shamsunnahar Jr. But Bangladesh still couldn’t regain their flow.
Early in the half, Sheuli Azim nearly handed Malaysia another chance after a defensive mix-up, but Henrieta Justin’s weak shot was easily saved by Rupna. In the 57th minute, Nur Nazwa’s attempt went straight to the goalkeeper.
Rupna prevented Malaysia from doubling their lead in the 62nd minute with a brilliant save, leaping to stop a shot from Nur Ainsah, who managed to slip between two defenders. Six minutes later, Sagorika squandered a golden opportunity to equalize. After exchanging passes with Tahura, Rituporna delivered a cross into the box, but the unmarked Sagorika headed wide.
A minute later, Rupna rushed forward to stop another Malaysian attack. Although she collected the ball safely, she collided with Nur Adreena Binte Zamzahir and appeared hurt, but she continued after receiving treatment.
In the 76th minute, Butler substituted Rituporna and Shamsunnahar Sr., bringing on Mamoni Chakma and Zaynab Bibi Rita.
Late in the match, Tahura’s weak shot failed to trouble the Malaysian goalkeeper. On the other end, Rupna made another sharp save to keep the scoreline from growing.
In added time, Monika took a shot from inside a crowded box, but the Malaysian goalkeeper pushed it away. Bangladesh had no choice but to leave the field with bitter disappointment.
Bangladesh will face Azerbaijan in their second match next Tuesday.
