Bangladesh Draws Sri Lanka and Bhutan in SAFF Championship

Bangladesh have been drawn alongside Sri Lanka and Bhutan in Group A for the upcoming 15th SAFF Championship, as the hosts aim to end a 23-year wait for the regional football title on home soil.

The group stage draw for South Asia’s premier international football tournament was held on Saturday (1 August) in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Representatives from the participating nations attended the ceremony, which also saw Kazi Salahuddin re-elected unopposed as president of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF).

Defending champions India have been placed in Group B, where they will compete against the Maldives and Pakistan. The draw has set the stage for another regional battle among South Asia’s leading football nations, with teams looking to establish their dominance in the competition.

For Bangladesh, the tournament carries special significance. The national team last lifted the SAFF Championship trophy in 2003, when the country hosted the tournament. Since then, Bangladesh have experienced a prolonged wait for another regional triumph despite several promising campaigns. The upcoming home edition provides a fresh opportunity for the team to challenge for the title in front of their supporters.

The 15th SAFF Championship is scheduled to take place in Bangladesh from 4 to 17 November. The hosts are expected to enter the competition with high expectations, as players, officials and supporters hope the home advantage can help the team produce a memorable performance.

However, one uncertainty remains regarding the final composition of the tournament. SAFF has seven member associations, but Nepal was not included in the initial draw due to a suspension imposed by FIFA. The regional football body has stated that Nepal could still participate if the suspension is lifted by 30 September.

If Nepal become eligible to compete, changes may be made to the tournament structure. Reports suggest that Nepal could be placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh to provide the hosts with more matches during the competition. However, SAFF has not yet announced any official decision regarding the possible adjustment.

The SAFF Championship remains the most prestigious international football competition in South Asia, bringing together national teams from across the region. The tournament has historically provided a platform for emerging players and has played an important role in developing football standards among member nations.

Bangladesh’s preparation for the event will now become a major focus. Team selection, tactical planning and player form will be crucial factors as the hosts attempt to reclaim the regional crown after more than two decades.

The group arrangement for the 15th SAFF Championship is as follows:

With the tournament returning to Bangladesh, expectations are already rising among football fans. The national team will look to turn the home crowd’s support into motivation and finally bring back the SAFF trophy after a long absence.