Defending champions China have been made to work hard to beat gallant tournament rookies Bangladesh 2-0 in their opening Women's Asian Cup clash.
China, with an incredible nine titles to their credit, are the benchmark Australia must lift for if the tournament hosts are to challenge for a second Asian Cup title.
The Steel Roses joined North Korea, who earlier beat Uzbekistan 3-0, as the undefeated sides after round one clashes in Group B.
China had never lost an opening match of the tournament and they continued that record in Parramatta under Australian coach Ante Milicic's guidance.
Milicic took over as China's head coach in mid-2024. The former Socceroos forward was inaugural coach of Macarthur FC and was also interim Matildas coach, taking the side to the last 16 of the 2019 World Cup before resigning the following year.
Star China forward Wang Shuang had one goal disallowed by VAR but her 28 metre strike that curled from right to left showcased her class and gave the tournament favourites the lead in the 44th minute.
Midfielder Zhang Rui added a second from just outside the box minutes later in first half stoppage time and the 2-0 lead at the break reflected China's dominance, who at one stage had 16 shots on goal to three.
The skill of the Asian powerhouses was on show but Bangladesh defended like demons. They were strong on the counter but lost concentration as the halftime break loomed.
Bangladesh's 19-year-old goalkeeper Mile Akter was outstanding and looked a real prospect with her confidence and athleticism. The teenager directed traffic with the steely determination of a seasoned professional and made multiple saves.
Akter suffered an accidental stud to the head late in the match but stoically got back on her feet with a giant smile to showcase her resilience.
Midfielder Monika Chakma was a livewire for Bangladesh with her close control, footwork and aggressive mindset combining to challenge China.
The Steel Roses clearly have plenty of improvement in them and loom as a huge threat to Australia when the tournament reaches its pointy end.
China and North Korea will meet in Parramatta on March 9 in a match that will likely decide who finishes top of Group B.
