The Bangladesh national football team, along with coaches, officials, and journalists, has safely returned to Dhaka from Nepal aboard a Bangladesh Air Force special flight, ending days of uncertainty caused by political turmoil in the neighboring country.

The aircraft landed at Bir Uttam AK Khandakar Air Base in Kurmitola around 4:40 PM on Thursday, according to the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF).

The squad had traveled to Nepal during the FIFA international window to play two friendlies. While the first match ended in a scoreless draw, the second was cancelled amid growing political unrest.

As the crisis deepened and commercial flights were grounded, the Bangladesh contingent became stranded at their hotel. Tensions rose further when protesters gathered outside, setting fires and attempting to break in amid speculation that exiled political leaders were hiding there. This created serious anxiety among the players and support staff.

Once the situation eased slightly on Wednesday, authorities began working on evacuation plans. With assistance from the Bangladesh government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Air Force, arrangements were finalized to bring the delegation home.

Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu reopened on a limited basis Wednesday, allowing the team to depart Thursday morning.

Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Nepal, Shafiqur Rahman, and embassy officials oversaw the team’s safe departure. The repatriation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, BFF, and other agencies.

The special flight was organized at the request of the Chief Adviser’s Office and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, with the Air Force carrying out the mission.