Bangladesh women’s football is living through its most successful chapter ever. From lifting the SAFF Championship trophy twice in a row to scripting history by qualifying for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time, the women footballers have consistently raised the nation’s pride. But just as the game continues to grow on the field, an unsavoury incident off the ball has cast a shadow over this inspiring journey.

A heated on-field brawl involving several national team players during the ongoing Women’s Football League on Sunday night has sparked widespread debate – and drawn sharp criticism from national team head coach Peter Butler.

The controversial incident took place at Bir Shrestha Shaheed Sipahi Mustofa Kamal Stadium in Kamalapur during the league match between Farashganj Sporting Club and Kacharipara Unnayan Sangstha. Farashganj dominated the contest from start to finish and eventually recorded a massive 23–0 victory. Yet, the emphatic scoreline was overshadowed by a heated altercation that erupted midway through the first half.

The flashpoint came in the 21st minute when Kacharipara’s Sabitri Tripura fouled Farashganj midfielder and national team star Monika Chakma from behind. With the referee initially failing to blow the whistle, Monika reacted angrily and confronted Sabitri. Within moments, both players fell to the ground as teammates from both sides rushed in, escalating the situation into a full-blown scuffle.

Several Farashganj players, including national team regulars Tohura Khatun and Maria Manda, became involved as tempers flared. After lengthy discussions, the referee showed a red card to Monika in the 28th minute. Kacharipara’s Sheikh Samia Akter was initially sent off as well, though the decision was later revised in favour of Sabitri. Farashganj captain Maria received a yellow card.

Kacharipara players strongly protested the referee’s decisions, remaining in the dugout area for an extended period. After a stoppage of nearly 15 minutes, play eventually resumed.

The footage of the incident has since reached Bangladesh women’s national team head coach Peter Butler, who had only returned to Dhaka on Sunday night after spending time on leave with his family during the opening rounds of the league. Speaking to Daily Sun, Butler expressed his disappointment and firmly condemned the players’ behaviour.

“It happens, it’s part of the game. However, I think retaliation is as bad as the instigator,” Butler said. “Red cards are shown and violent conduct is a three-match ban under FIFA rules. It was more pushing and shoving, handbags at 40 paces – pathetic really. Our national team girls should know better. We don’t condone such displays of ill-discipline.”

Butler was particularly critical of Tohura’s involvement, who attempted a flying kick at an opponent. The English tactician said, “Tohura was lucky not getting a red card. She should have been sent off as well for kicking the girl on the ground – very disappointing.”

Addressing the broader issue of changing body language among players, Butler highlighted the fine balance between confidence and arrogance.

“I think there is a fine line between arrogance and confidence,” he explained. “I like girls’ positive body language – self-confidence is very important. They live in the shadows of the boys. However, portraying confidence on an iPhone camera is different from walking on the field, oozing confidence, bossing the game with controlled confidence and style. That’s what I’m looking for.”

Responding to any perception that he encourages aggressive retaliation, Butler was clear about his philosophy.

“I encourage my players to play hard, however within the rules of the game,” he said. “Controlled aggression is what I encourage. I deplore retaliation or ill-discipline.”

While Farashganj’s record-breaking win will be remembered statistically, the unsavoury scenes have raised serious questions about discipline and professionalism in women’s football. As Bangladesh continues its upward journey on the continental stage, Butler’s remarks underline the importance of maintaining composure, discipline and respect – both for the game and for the country’s growing reputation in women’s football.