Dhaka, March 3 -- Bangladesh's women's national football team delivered a performance of immense grit and character on their Asian Cup debut, holding their own against continental giants China in a 2-0 defeat that felt more like a statement of progress than a loss.

Under the evening sky at Sydney, a vocal crowd of 6,000-sounding like 20,000 as expatriate Bangladeshis roared in support-witnessed the South Asian side frustrate the defending champions for long periods.

Despite the gulf in experience and physical stature, Bangladesh maintained 41% possession and completed 257 passes against a Chinese side that has appeared in eight World Cups.

Coach Peter Butler opted for a bold tactical shift, handing the gloves to youngster Mili Akthar o...