“If BFF can find sponsors, govt will help them,” State Minister

The government has no intention of spending money to organize a friendly match involving five-time World Champions Brazil in Dhaka, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque stated.

Brazil expressed interest in playing a friendly match against Bangladesh in Dhaka this October. Organizing the tour would require a substantial amount of money from the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF). The federation hinted yesterday that it might seek financial support from the government to cover the expenses.

Responding to a query after the closing ceremony of a coaches' training course organized by the Boxing Federation in Dhaka, the State Minister made the government's position clear.

Highlighting the financial realities in the country, Aminul Haque said, "To answer in one word, at this moment from the government's end... spending such money... as you know, we have to bear significant expenses in various sectors including power and energy. In this situation, we do not have the mindset to incur such expenses for a single match."

He added, "Since the Brazil delegation has spoken with BFF, if they can arrange sponsors to fulfill the requirements, we will provide overall cooperation from the government side."

Regarding the initial communication about the tour and BFF's expectation of support, the State Minister noted that discussions remain at a very preliminary stage. He stated he had talked with the BFF president, but detailed discussions regarding expenses and related matters have not yet taken place.

Addressing questions about the potential benefits for local football if Brazil visits, Aminul Haque expressed skepticism about long-term impact.

"We believe that if the Brazil team comes to Bangladesh and plays against our national team, it would be a huge achievement for the country. However, I am not very optimistic about how much Bangladesh football will advance through this. The match will happen, Bangladesh may play against Brazil, and public expectations might be fulfilled. Spectators may feel delighted, but I do not agree that a visit by the Brazil team will transform Bangladesh football," he remarked.

The State Minister reaffirmed that the matter is still at an initial phase and no definitive confirmation exists regarding whether the Brazil team will visit Bangladesh.

-SA