In today's article we are going to delve into the fascinating world of 2023 SAFF Championship. From its origins to its evolution today, this topic has aroused unprecedented interest in numerous people around the world. We will explore the different aspects that make 2023 SAFF Championship so relevant in today's society and how it has impacted various areas of daily life. In addition, we will analyze the different perspectives and opinions of experts on the subject, with the aim of providing a more complete and enriching vision for our readers. Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey through 2023 SAFF Championship!
India, the defending champions, won their ninth championship by defeating Kuwait in the final.
Host selection
At the SAFF Executive Committee meeting, held on 17 October 2021 in the Maldives, Football Sri Lanka expressed their interest to bid for hosting the tournament. However, FIFA suspended Sri Lanka on 21 January 2023, which ceased them from hosting and participation in any football tournament.
Later on 30 January 2023, SAFF unofficially announced that only Nepal had applied for hosting rights till the deadline which is 29 January 2023. The host was supposed to be announced following the SAFF members' meeting during 33rd AFC Congress in Manama, Bahrain on 1 February 2023. On 14 February 2023, India were declared as the hosts of the 14th edition of the championship. On 19 March 2023, AIFF announced Bangalore as the host city for SAFF Championship 2023.
Participating nations
Football Sri Lanka was sanctioned by FIFA on 21 January 2023, which made them ineligible for participation in the competition.Kuwait and Lebanon were invited as guest teams with a view to increase the number of teams for the championship and make the event more competitive.