Nepal could join hosts Bangladesh’s group in the SAFF Championship if FIFA lifts its suspension before a deadline set by the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF).
The tournament will take place in Bangladesh from November 4 to 17. SAFF will conduct the draw in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Saturday at 5:00pm Bangladesh time, but Nepal will not feature because of the ongoing FIFA suspension.
SAFF general secretary Purushottam Kattel confirmed that Saturday’s draw would initially involve only six teams.
“Tomorrow’s draw will be held with six teams. Nepal will not be included because of FIFA’s suspension,” Kattel said.
SAFF has not completely ruled Nepal out. The federation’s executive committee will meet before the draw and set a deadline for Nepal to regain eligibility.
“If the suspension is lifted within that period, Nepal will be able to play in the tournament. Otherwise, there will be no opportunity,” Kattel said.
SAFF has already prepared an alternative fixture list if Nepal returns before the deadline. Under that plan, Nepal would join Bangladesh’s group to ensure the hosts play an extra match during the competition.
“If Nepal is cleared by FIFA, they will play in the hosts’ group. We have prepared an alternative schedule and will explain it in detail during the draw ceremony,” Kattel added.
A six-team tournament would feature two groups of three teams, with each group playing three matches. If Nepal joins and one group expands to four teams, SAFF believes the competition can still finish within the planned dates by making minor adjustments to rest days.
The governing body will publish fixture lists for both six-team and seven-team scenarios after the draw.
