Bangladesh’s women’s football team concluded their Asian Games campaign on Monday, 21 September, after playing out a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Myanmar in their final Group F fixture in Japan. Both sides created chances to break the deadlock throughout the match, but neither managed to find the back of the net, leaving the red-and-green outfit to exit the tournament with a single point.
The result carries significant context, coming eighteen months after Bangladesh famously defeated Myanmar on home soil to secure a historic first-ever qualification for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Repeating that feat proved elusive in Japan, as both teams entered the match determined to restore pride following heavy defeats in their opening Group F encounters. Bangladesh had suffered a 10-0 loss to North Korea followed by a 6-0 defeat against South Korea. Myanmar experienced a similarly difficult start, conceding five goals against South Korea and eight against North Korea.
Myanmar controlled much of the attacking tempo during the opening half, using wide areas to probe the Bangladeshi defence. Win Theingi Tun spearheaded Myanmar’s forward line, posing a persistent threat. However, Bangladesh remained resolute at the back, anchored by the defensive pairing of Sheuli Azim and Shamsunnahar Senior alongside goalkeeper Rupna Chakma. Chakma produced a crucial save in the 27th minute, tipping a powerful long-range effort wide to keep the scoreline level. On the counter-attack, Bangladesh relied on the speed and creativity of Ritu Porna Chakma, Monika Chakma, and Tohura Khatun, though clear-cut opportunities remained limited.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Myanmar pressing forward and testing Bangladesh’s defensive discipline. A goalmouth scramble in the 81st minute nearly gifted Myanmar the lead, but a timely clearance from a Bangladeshi defender thwarted the danger. Bangladesh earned a corner in the 84th minute, though captain Maria Manda was unable to capitalise on the set-piece delivery.
Myanmar made a final push in stoppage time, with their striker breaking through in the 91st minute to unleash a powerful shot from close range. Chakma produced another heroic reaction save, ensuring Bangladesh held firm until the final whistle. While Myanmar dominated overall possession and shot counts, Bangladesh’s defensive resilience ensured they finished their tournament campaign on a competitive note.



