Bangladesh’s government will not provide money to stage a proposed friendly involving five-time world champions Brazil in Dhaka next October, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque said. Speaking to reporters after the closing ceremony of a coaches’ training programme organised by the Dhaka Boxing Federation, he said the government had clarified its position on the planned match.

Haque said the government must bear major costs in essential sectors including electricity and energy, and therefore has no intention of spending such funds on a single football match at this time. He said the Bangladesh Football Federation, or BFF, could complete arrangements through private or commercial sponsors, while the government would offer administrative and infrastructure support.

The minister said Brazil’s visit and a match against Bangladesh’s red-and-green representatives would be a major occasion and would delight spectators. However, he said one Brazil match alone would not transform the quality of Bangladesh football. Discussions over the visit remain preliminary, with no detailed financial calculations or final agreement completed. Whether the match is held in Dhaka depends on the BFF’s ability to secure sponsorship.