Irregularities cast shadow over Bangladesh Championship League

 
The ongoing Bangladesh Championship League (BCL) 2025-26 has come under scrutiny following a series of organisational lapses and alleged breaches of football regulations, raising serious concerns over governance and professionalism in the country's second-tier competition.

Organised by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), the second phase of the league commenced on 5 April, featuring ten clubs. Matches are being staged across three venues located 20 to 40 kilometres from the capital, including practice and peripheral grounds, yet the competition has largely unfolded behind closed doors, devoid of spectators and media presence.

Matchday environments reportedly lack adequate security, with unrestricted access to player enclosures. Scoreboards are being operated by untrained individuals, leading to frequent disruptions, particularly under adverse weather conditions. Basic amenities, including refreshment facilities, are also conspicuously absent.

The controversy intensified following a contentious fixture between Little Friends Club and Khelaghar Samaj Kalyan Samity on 16 April at Fortis Ground, Jalsiri. A disputed free-kick goal prompted prolonged protests, halting play for approximately 14 minutes. Despite this disruption, the referee resumed the match and added only limited stoppage time, ultimately concluding the game with Khelaghar securing a 5-1 win.

According to FIFA regulations, refusal to comply with officiating decisions constitutes a punishable offence, potentially resulting in forfeiture or disciplinary sanctions. However, no such measures were enforced, prompting Little Friends Club to lodge a formal complaint with BFF authorities.

As questions mount, attention now turns to the league committee's response and whether corrective measures will be swiftly implemented to restore credibility to the competition.