The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has yet to reach a final decision regarding the venue for the Federation Cup final between Mohammedan Sporting Club and Bashundhara Kings, amid a firm stance from Mohammedan that they will not play at the Kings’ home ground.
The final, originally scheduled to be held at Bashundhara Kings Arena, remains uncertain after Mohammedan reiterated their refusal to participate at the designated venue. The issue was discussed during a meeting held yesterday at the BFF headquarters between BFF President Tabith Awal and representatives of Mohammedan Sporting Club.
Mohammedan were represented by their Director (Sports), Mostakur Rahman, who clearly communicated the club’s position. He stated that playing the final at Kings Arena is not acceptable to Mohammedan and requested the selection of a neutral venue instead.
Speaking after the meeting, Mostakur Rahman said:
“On behalf of the club, I have informed the BFF president that it is not possible for us to play the final at Kings Arena. We have requested an alternative neutral venue. The next steps are up to the federation.”
He further added that past experiences at the same venue were also communicated to the BFF president. However, no immediate decision was taken, and the federation indicated that discussions with other stakeholders would follow.
BFF President Tabith Awal later confirmed in a press briefing that Mohammedan remain firm in their position. He also noted that both participating clubs have raised counter-allegations regarding venues. He added that concerns raised by Bashundhara Kings regarding Mohammedan’s earlier venue in Cumilla are also part of the ongoing discussion.
According to earlier arrangements, the Federation Cup draw was held on 13 April. Mohammedan’s football manager, Imtiaz Ahmed Nikhil, stated that during the draw process the club had already made its position clear: if Mohammedan and Bashundhara Kings meet in the final, they will not play at Kings Arena. He also clarified that Mohammedan had no objection to playing against other opponents, including Abahani Limited Dhaka, at the same venue.
Mohammedan secured their place in the final on 12 May in Cumilla after defeating Brothers Union. The club stated that they left the field immediately after the match, following which they received a message from the league committee indicating that the final would be held at Kings Arena. The club questioned the timing and rationale behind the notification.
Further developments include claims from Mohammedan officials that their club president also communicated directly with the BFF president regarding their position. In addition, an official letter was submitted to the federation outlining their concerns and objections.
The matter has since escalated, with both sides maintaining their respective positions. BFF officials have stated that efforts are ongoing to find a resolution acceptable to both clubs and stakeholders.
Key Positions on Venue Issue
| Stakeholder | Position | Key Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Mohammedan Sporting Club | Opposes Kings Arena venue | Requests neutral venue; cites prior concerns |
| Bashundhara Kings | Supports designated venue | Expects final to be held at home ground as per draw |
| Bangladesh Football Federation | Seeking resolution | Reviewing both clubs’ positions and allegations |
The BFF president also acknowledged that certain serious issues should have been addressed earlier in the process, although he did not specify them publicly. Federation sources have indicated that previous international matches at Kings Arena led to fines imposed by FIFA, which is also being referenced in the broader discussion surrounding venue selection.