Butler hints at stepping down after Bangladesh lose to Uzbekistan in Asian Cup

Despite high hopes, the Bangladesh women’s football team ended their AFC Women's Asian Cup campaign with a defeat. After earlier losses to China and North Korea, the side suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Uzbekistan. Following the loss, head coach Peter Butler hinted that he may step down from his role.

The British coach of the Bangladesh team arrived slightly late at the post-match press conference at Perth Rectangular Stadium. Before criticism of the team’s performance could begin, he highlighted various limitations and challenges within the federation and spoke about his uncertainty regarding continuing in the role.

At the start of the press conference, Butler said, “I have great respect for the girls and I am proud of them. Now I will go back and think about what I want to do in the future. I will return to England and make a decision from there.”

Bangladesh played in the Asian Cup for the first time this year. When asked what should be done for the team to qualify again in the future, the coach again referred to his plan to return to England.

“I will not be staying here. I will return to England next week and think about my future there. What I want to do has been on my mind for a long time,” he said.

Asked why he planned to return to England despite several major tournaments ahead this year, including the Asian Games and the SAFF Championship, Butler said he needed time to reflect.

“I will go back to England, talk with my wife and take my dog for a walk. Then I will think about my future plans. If I do not receive the support and assistance expected, I cannot continue the job. The reality is that you must have a clear plan, and we lacked that in our planning,” he said.

Butler added that greater investment was essential. “First of all, we need investment. We must start with video equipment and cameras. We must seriously consider our own planning and preparation. If you want to compete with the big teams, you must understand that this level is far above the SAFF level.”