Bangladesh Agree to Replace India in FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, Set to Face Indonesia

Bangladesh’s national team have reportedly accepted an offer to replace India at the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, which is scheduled to be held in Indonesia.

India previously decided to withdraw from the tournament due to a scheduled match against Brazil. The situation prompted Indonesia, as the host nation, to search for a replacement to fill the vacant spot.

According to a report from The Daily Star, Bangladesh have emerged as the country selected to take India’s place. The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) reportedly approved Indonesia’s proposal following internal discussions.

With the decision, Bangladesh are set to join Group A, where they will face Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia.

“BFF and the National Team Committee (NTC) President, Tabith Awal, sought opinions from NTC members on whether to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup or host a four-nation tournament in Dhaka,” said Sayed Hasan Kanon, an NTC member and BFF Executive Committee member.

According to Sayed Hasan, NTC members unanimously agreed to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. The tournament is considered an important part of Bangladesh’s preparations for the upcoming SAFF Championship, particularly as they will have the opportunity to face stronger opposition.

“We unanimously agreed to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup as part of the Bangladesh team’s preparations for the upcoming SAFF Championship, because Bangladesh will face stronger opponents,” he added.

Financial considerations also played a role in Bangladesh’s decision. Indonesia, as the host nation, will reportedly cover the accommodation and airfare expenses for the Bangladesh delegation. Bangladesh will also receive a participation fee for taking part in the tournament.

“In addition, Bangladesh will receive a participation fee while the hosts will cover accommodation and airfare, so this is a better option for us than hosting a four-nation tournament in Dhaka,” Sayed Hasan concluded.

The FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from September 24 to October 4, 2026. Indonesia will host the tournament at two venues: the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) in Jakarta and Si Jalak Harupat Stadium (SJH) in Bandung.

If Bangladesh’s participation is officially confirmed, Indonesia will face another opponent from outside Southeast Asia. Their presence could provide an interesting test for the Garuda squad as they prepare for their upcoming international commitments.