Bangladesh is set to mark a new chapter in its footballing history by hosting its first-ever neutral international match, an AFC Asian Cup qualifier between Afghanistan and Myanmar, scheduled for November 18.

The decision was finalized after the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) submitted a formal request to the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) to host their designated home match. Following the BFF's acceptance, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) granted its official approval, cementing Dhaka as the venue, according to BSS.

This qualifier highlights a busy day for football in the capital, as the Bangladesh national team is also scheduled to play against India at the Bangabandhu National Stadium on the same date.

Consequently, the Afghanistan-Myanmar match is likely to be held at the Bashundhara Kings Arena, the only other AFC-certified venue currently available in Bangladesh.

The move is being seen as a significant milestone, demonstrating Bangladesh's capability as a host nation in South Asia. Officials noted that the country now possesses the appropriate infrastructure, security protocols, and efficient management required to host international fixtures, achieving a capacity similar to established neutral venues in regions like the Middle East.

BOB Post