Bangladesh’s build-up to their second FIFA friendly against Nepal took a dramatic turn in Kathmandu on 8 August. The players were scheduled to train at 3:00 pm at Dasharath Rangashala Stadium. However, the session was cancelled as sudden street protests spread across the city.
In the afternoon, students and citizens launched demonstrations against the government. Within hours, the situation escalated. The Nepalese authorities imposed a curfew to control unrest. This forced the Bangladesh Football Federation to call off training.
Media manager Sadman Sakib explained the decision. “Our training was set for 3:15 pm Nepal time. Around 2:30 we were told the outside situation was tense. It was not possible to travel. The team is safe in the hotel,” he said.
The cancellation created concern ahead of Tuesday’s match. Bangladesh and Nepal are due to meet again on 9 August at the same stadium. Yet the political climate has placed doubt on whether the game can go ahead.
Bangladesh already had a quiet build-up. On 7 August, Nepal trained, but Bangladesh took a rest day. Now the players face the possibility of entering the second friendly with no outdoor practice for two days.
Coach Javier Cabrera tried to keep focus inside the hotel. The squad carried out a ninety-minute indoor session from 4:30 pm. It was not a substitute for pitch work, but it allowed the team to stay active and prepare as best as possible.
Earlier in the day, both coaches and captains had spoken in a press conference. They previewed the match and highlighted the importance of these friendlies. By the evening, the mood changed completely. Safety became the only priority.
The first game on 6 August ended goalless. Bangladesh created chances but failed to convert, leaving frustration in the camp. The second match had been seen as a chance to respond and build momentum before October’s AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong. Now the unrest has added another challenge.
For Bangladesh, the immediate task is to stay safe and adapt. The squad understands that international football often brings unexpected obstacles. If the game goes ahead, they will enter without their planned training but with renewed determination to focus on football.
