Bangladesh Football Federation condemns vandalism that forced cancellation of women's match

The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has expressed its strong disapproval of the vandalism that led to the cancellation of a women's football match at Tilakpur High School ground in Joypurhat's Akkelpur upazila on Tuesday.

The scheduled friendly match between two female teams was disrupted when some locals and madrasa students vandalised the venue, forcing its cancellation.

In response, the BFF issued a statement on Wednesday condemning the incident.

"The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) does not support the vandalism that occurred to call off the women's football match at the Tilakpur High School ground in Joypurhat's Akkelpur upazila," the statement read.

The federation emphasised that football is an inclusive sport, and female players have every right to participate. "Creating barriers to women's sports goes against the progress of football and sports development as a whole. The Bangladesh Football Federation firmly believes that everyone must work together to ensure the continued participation of women in sports," the statement continued.

BFF has called on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take the necessary measures to prevent such incidents from recurring. "We urge the concerned authorities to carry out a proper investigation and take appropriate steps to ensure that no obstacles hinder women's participation in football."

The federation also appealed to local social organisations and influential figures to support women's involvement in sports. "We encourage local social organisations and community leaders to come forward in supporting women's participation in sports, ensuring that women and girls can engage in football and other athletic activities without hindrance," the statement concluded.