Bangladesh hold firm but China lead at halftime

Bangladesh trailed 2-0 at the break against defending champions China in their opening fixture of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup at Western Sydney Stadium on Tuesday, conceding twice late in the first half despite a disciplined display on their debut in the tournament.

Peter Butler’s side spent much of the opening period keeping their shape intact in a compact defensive setup, absorbing pressure as China created several chances. Bangladesh, however, nearly stunned the favourites in the 14th minute when Ritu Porna Chakma’s trademark long-range strike was pushed away by the outstretched Chen Chen.

In the 24th minute, China thought they had taken the lead, but VAR ruled the effort offside. The resistance was finally broken in the 44th minute as Wang Shuang opened the scoring, before Zhang Rui doubled the lead in first-half added time.

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No Rupna in goal as Bangladesh take on champions China

Despite the setback, goalkeeper Mile Akter impressed on her surprise start, justifying Butler’s decision.