Bangladesh has received an unexpected opportunity to participate in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup after India withdrew from the tournament because of a scheduling clash with an international friendly against Brazil.
Bangladesh had already expressed interest in joining the competition. The Bangladesh Football Federation had reportedly informed ASEAN authorities that the country should be considered if an opportunity became available. India’s withdrawal has now opened that door.
The All India Football Federation decided that India could not participate in both the ASEAN Cup and the Brazil friendly during the same international window. India is scheduled to face Brazil in Kolkata on October 3, while the ASEAN Cup is scheduled to take place in Indonesia during the same period.
Following India’s decision, Bangladesh received an invitation and quickly accepted it. The Bangladesh Football Federation’s National Team Committee approved participation after an online meeting chaired by federation president Tabith Awal. Members unanimously favoured playing in the ASEAN Cup rather than proceeding with plans for a separate four-nation tournament or friendly matches during the September international window.
The tournament is scheduled to be held from September 21 to October 6. India had originally been placed in Division One’s Group A alongside hosts Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. It remains to be seen whether Bangladesh will take India’s place in the same group or whether the organisers will revise the group structure.
Group B includes Vietnam, Pakistan, Thailand and the Philippines. Pakistan also secured a place in the tournament after China withdrew.
India was initially invited as the only South Asian guest team. However, its decision to prioritise the high-profile Brazil friendly has now handed Bangladesh a major opportunity to compete on a larger international stage.
