Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) honoured Bangladesh’s SAFF U-20 champions on Wednesday at its office, 18 days after their unbeaten title win, by awarding each player Tk50,000 and a crest following an earlier announcement at Hatirjheel. The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) used the event to press for improved facilities as both sides outlined plans to expand access to playing grounds.
The City Corporation underlined its ongoing role in football despite its civic mandate. It continues to fund the Pioneer League, which forms the base of the country’s football structure, and allows BFF to use several municipal field for competitions. That relationship places the Corporation at the centre of grassroots development, where access to pitches remains a key constraint.
BFF president Tabith Awal said, “The City Corporation is opening six more grounds for football, which is a positive step. Opening them alone is not enough; they also need renovation and proper development. BFF will provide coaching and technical support.” His remarks set a clear division of responsibility, with infrastructure expected from the Corporation and technical input from the federation.
DNCC administrator Shafiqul Islam Milton said, “We have already started opening grounds. We will also carry out the necessary upgrades to make them suitable for football.” His statement confirms that access and usability will progress together, addressing a long-standing issue where available pitches often fail to meet playing standards.
The Corporation framed the financial reward as symbolic but forward-looking. Milton said, “This may be a small amount, but it should motivate you for the future. We expect you to represent the national team and bring honour to the country.” The emphasis on progression reflects the pathway from youth success to senior international football.
Bangladesh’s U-20 side now targets qualification for the AFC U-20 Championship. Awal indicated that reaching the final stage would reinforce the value of institutional support, linking performance outcomes with continued backing from civic authorities.
The 23-member squad included three expatriate players, with their cheques handed to family members. Four players missed the ceremony due to SSC examinations, and BFF collected their cheques on their behalf. Coaching staff received crests but no financial bonuses, maintaining a player-focused reward structure.
