Indonesian media are surprised by the new opponent in the FIFA ASEAN Cup

Indonesian media react after Bangladesh officially replaces India in the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup.

Indonesian media pay special attention after Bangladesh is confirmed to replace India at the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup. According to Indonesia's Bola.com, the appearance of Bangladesh adds another notable opponent to Group A, alongside hosts Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.

According to Bola.com, the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) accepted the invitation to participate in the tournament after India withdrew. This information was confirmed by Bangladesh National Team Committee member Sayed Hasan Kanon, following discussions between the BFF and team officials. This is seen as a way to maintain the originally planned number of teams in the competition.

Bola.com quotes Mr. Kanon: "BFF President and NTC Chairman Tabith Awal consulted with NTC members on whether to join the FIFA ASEAN Cup or organize a four-nation tournament in Dhaka." Ultimately, Bangladesh chose to travel to Indonesia instead of hosting its own event at home.

Notably, Indonesian media believe that the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup could bring significant professional value to Bangladesh. The South Asian team sees the tournament as a preparation opportunity for the 2026 SAFF Cup, while also testing themselves against higher-quality opponents. "We agreed to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup as part of the Bangladesh team's preparation for the upcoming SAFF Championship, because Bangladesh will face stronger opponents," Kanon said.

Beyond professional significance, Bangladesh also enjoys favorable conditions for joining the tournament. Bola.com reports that the world's 181st-ranked team will receive support for participation fees, accommodation, and airfare. "Moreover, Bangladesh will receive a participation fee while the host nation will provide accommodation and airfare, so this is a good option for us instead of organizing a four-nation tournament in Dhaka," Mr. Kanon stated.

With Bangladesh replacing India, Group A of the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup will consist of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Bangladesh. Bola.com also recalls that India withdrew due to a clash with a friendly match against Brazil and limitations on the number of matches during FIFA Days. This change helps Indonesia avoid disruption to the tournament while providing a new opponent for coach Shin Tae-yong's team to prepare for competition in Group A.