India out, Bangladesh in for FIFA ASEAN Cup

The National Teams Committee (NTC) of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) on Friday agreed to accept an invitation to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia.

Bangladesh were approached by the hosts after India withdrew from the inaugural tournament, citing preparations for an international friendly against Brazil.

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The FIFA-funded tournament will feature eight teams in the Premier Division, divided into two groups, with matches scheduled in Indonesia from September 4 to October 4.

“BFF president and NTC chairman Tabith Awal sought the opinion of NTC members on whether to take part in the FIFA ASEAN Cup or host a four-nation tournament in Dhaka,” informed NTC member and BFF executive committee member Sayed Hasan Kanon.

“We unanimously gave our opinion to take part in the FIFA ASEAN Cup as part of the Bangladesh team’s preparation for the upcoming SAFF Championship, as Bangladesh will face better opponents.

“Besides, Bangladesh will receive participation money while the hosts will provide accommodation and airfare, so it is a good option for us instead of hosting a four-nation tournament in Dhaka,” added the former national goalkeeper.

Kanon said the BFF president and secretariat would now proceed with the formalities, including sending an acceptance letter to the organisers.