Ali Thameem
South Asian Football Federation has declared Bangladesh as the host nation for the 15th edition of the SAFF Championship.
This would be the fourth time that Bangladesh hosts the premier football tournament of South Asia, having previously hosted it in 2003, 2009 and 2018.
All member countries except for Nepal are expected to participate. Nepal, who were suspended by FIFA this June, is the only nation besides India to have competed in all previous SAFF Championship editions.
The draw ceremony is scheduled for 1 August, according to a SAFF press release published today.
“This tournament holds a special place in our hearts, having created countless memorable moments for football fans across the region over the years,” said SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel.
The last time Bangladesh hosted the championship was in 2018, when Maldives won the trophy for the second time. Goals from Ibrahim Mahudhee and Ali Fasir helped Maldives defeat Nepal 2-1 in the final at Bangabandhu Stadium.
