Aminul seeks answers over footballers’ alleged nightclub visit

Two Bangladesh footballers are facing a formal investigation and the potential loss of their state sporting allowances after a photograph allegedly showed them visiting a nightclub following a humiliating 9-2 defeat to Indonesia in the FIFA ASEAN Cup.

Defender Saad Uddin and midfielder Sohel Rana Jr sparked public outrage when the picture circulated on social media shortly after Bangladesh’s heavy group-stage loss to the tournament hosts on 1 October. The two players have strongly denied the accusations, claiming the widely shared photograph is old and was not taken after the match.

Bangladesh's State Minister for Youth and Sports, Aminul Haque, expressed deep frustration and anger over the controversy. Speaking on Sunday at the National Sports Council Tower during a reception for Asian Games wushu medallist Jinnat Akter, he confirmed that a probe is already underway to uncover the truth.

"The football results were already very poor. On top of that, we have this allegation. I am very disappointed," Aminul said. "We are also looking into who was in charge of management at that time."

The minister issued a stern warning regarding player conduct, making it clear that strict measures await the duo if the claims are validated.

"I am saying this clearly: if the allegations of them going to the nightclub are proven, action will certainly be taken for a breach of discipline," he added. "If they are included in the sports allowance programme, that will be cancelled."

Aminul also confirmed he is coordinating with the national football governing body to address the fallout.

"I have spoken with the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) president (Tabith Awal). He is probably out of the country. I will work on the remaining issues when he returns," minister said. "An investigation committee has already been formed regarding this. How they found the audacity to do such a thing after that kind of performance will also be closely examined. Everything will be investigated."