The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) is set to revolutionize football in South Asia with a major format change. Starting this year, SAFF aims to adopt a fresh approach to its tournaments. For a long time, SAFF had been exploring ways to host its games in multiple countries rather than in a centralized venue. Now, this idea is on the verge of implementation.
On January 8, SAFF’s executive committee meeting will take place in Nepal, where significant decisions are expected. This meeting will determine the future of SAFF tournaments. The current plan for the upcoming SAFF Championship involves a different structure: games will no longer follow the traditional group-stage format. Instead, all seven teams will be placed in a single table and will compete in a league format. Each team will play six matches, three at home and three away, under the proposed “Home and Away” system.
Key Features of the New Format:
Teams will play three matches in their home country and three in their opponents’ countries.
Matches will be held simultaneously across three different countries on a single matchday.
Teams will have five days between matches to travel and prepare.
The system ensures fans in every participating country can experience SAFF games in their home stadiums.
A Singapore-based American company is set to partner with SAFF to help implement this new system, as they have experience with similar formats in ASEAN countries. Sponsors are also in favor of the “Home and Away” approach, making it likely to gain approval.
However, if the Home and Away system isn’t finalized, SAFF will revert to its old centralized venue format.
Challenges and Solutions:
Travel logistics and frequent matches might seem daunting, but SAFF General Secretary Anwarul Haque Helal explained that it’s manageable. He cited examples from global tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, where teams travel extensively.
For the finals, a hybrid approach will be introduced: a “Home and Away” format with two matches to decide the champion.
Additional Notes:
If approved, SAFF 2025 will kick off without any central opening ceremony. Instead, matches will start simultaneously in three countries on the first day.
Each host nation can choose to hold its own opening festivities if desired.
The tournament is scheduled to take place in June-July, lasting approximately one month and five days.
This bold initiative, if implemented, promises to enhance the visibility and excitement of South Asian football.
