AFC Fines ANFA USD 2,000 for Late Kick-Off and Second-Half Delay

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has imposed a disciplinary fine of USD 2,000 on the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) for violating the AFC Tournament Organizing Policy after delays in match proceedings.

According to the AFC’s official disciplinary decision, the Nepalese team entered the field 1 minute and 20 seconds late at kick-off against Malasiya in Asian Cup Qualification, while there was an additional delay of 1 minute and 30 seconds at the start of the second half. These delays were deemed a breach of tournament operational regulations.

The AFC emphasized that timely entry onto the field is a mandatory requirement under its Tournament Organising Policy, designed to ensure professionalism, smooth broadcasting schedules, and fair competition across AFC tournaments.

As per the ruling, the USD 2,000 fine has been levied on ANFA as the match organiser, and the federation has been instructed to strictly comply with AFC timelines in future international and continental fixtures.

The AFC maintains a strict disciplinary approach toward match-day delays, irrespective of the duration, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high organisational standards in Asian football. ANFA has to pay fine within 30 days.

ANFA has not yet released an official statement regarding the AFC disciplinary action. 

Players to Watch APF Vs East Bengal FC | SAFF Womens Club Championship Final

Nepal's  APF Club will face India's mighty East Bengal FC in a final match of first ever SAFF Womens Club championship on 20th December Saturday at Dashrath Stadium at 5 Pm. Both team ended a goalless draw in a previous match of group stage where both team showed their talent but cant break the deadlock. For the thrilling final match here are some impactful players to watch who can change the game 

Mina Deuba – “Mini Dynamite” (APF / Nepal)

Mina Deuba is a Nepali forward known for her pace, direct running, and goal instincts earning her the nickname “mini dynamite” from fans and local media for her explosive attacking style. 

Impact in the SAFF Women’s Club Championship

 Deuba scored twice in APF’s dominant 4–0 win in their opening SAFF Championship match, including a brilliant solo run goal after beating her marker on the flank. She finished with 2 goals in the tournament, making her one of APF’s leading scorers. 

Playing Style

Mina tends to explode into space with direct runs that stretch defenses — especially effective in transitional moments. Finishing flair: Her goals in the tournament came from confident strikes after beating defenders, underlining her composure in front of goal. Scoring early in tournament matches and supporting APF’s frontline shows her ability to step up when the team needs something from the attack. 

Why She’s “To Watch”

She’s already among the top scorers for APF in this championship. Dynamic winger/forward play, her electric runs and combination play can unlock tight defenses — crucial in finals with tight margins.

Rashmi Kumari Ghising – Forward

One of APF’s most dangerous attackers in the tournament. She scored multiple goals, including key strikes in the 4–0 win over Nasrin Sports Academy and the 1–0 win over Karachi City FC. She has been among the team’s top scorers. Her movement in the box and ability to finish chances make her the focal point of APF’s attack.

Saru Limbu – Midfielder

Creative midfielder and a regular for both APF and Nepal’s national team. Known for controlling the midfield tempo, linking play, and bringing experience to APF’s buildup. Her ability to transition play from defense to attack could be key against East Bengal’s structured defense.

Anjana Rana Magar – Goalkeeper

Returned from injury to play crucial minutes in APF’s group matches. Shot-stopping and leadership at the back, essential in the goalless draw with East Bengal. Anjana is known for her quick reactions, agility, and calm presence under pressure — making her a reliable last line of defense in tight games. Her penalty saves in international competition have highlighted her ability to stay composed in high-stakes moments.

Renuka Nagarkoti – Attacking Support

 Her creativity and wing play can unlock defenses when APF goes forward. She’s known for smart distribution and vision, helping APF control possession and transition quickly.

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East Bengal FC – Players to Watch

Fazila Ikwaput – Striker

The tournament’s most prolific goal-scorer heading into the final, with multiple goals in earlier matches (including five in a single game). Ugandan international with strong finishing, known to score from various attacking positions. She’s East Bengal’s biggest goal threat — capable of breaking deadlocks in tight games.

Sulanjana Raul – Forward

Has shown great pace, dribbling, and attacking instinct in the competition, scoring and troubling defenses. Her ability to stretch defenses and combine with Ikwaput adds another dimension to East Bengal’s attack.

Resty Nanziri – Forward

Clinical in front of goal with a sharp eye for finishing. Goalscoring instincts that can swing tight matches in East Bengal’s favor.

Sweety Devi Ngangbam (CB)

One of India’s prominent defenders and captain type, experienced with national team duties as well as club leadership. Her defensive organization and tackling will be vital in containing APF’s attacking attempts.

Jyoti Chouhan – Midfielder/Forward

India international who has played in Europe and scored at high levels.Brings quality and composure, plus creative threat either from midfield or attack.

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Match-up Dynamics

• APF’s strength comes from a balanced attack led by Rashmi Ghising and midfield control by Saru Limbu. Their ability to stay compact and hit on transitions will be crucial.
• East Bengal’s strength is in depth, forward scoring firepower, and international experience among key players like Ikwaput, Raul, and Nanziri — giving them an edge in attacking transitions.
• The goalkeepers and defensive units on both sides will be pivotal, especially in a final where one moment of quality can decide the title.

Reviving the Lost Glory: Can Nepali Football Rise Again?

Reviving the Lost Charm of Nepali Football

Nepali football was once a source of pride and collective emotion. Packed stadiums, fierce rivalries, and passionate chants defined an era when the sport united the nation. However, in recent years, that charm has faded. The decline is not sudden—it is the result of structural neglect, poor governance, and missed opportunities. If Nepali football is to rise again, bold and timely steps must be taken.

Reasons Behind the Downfall of Nepali Football

1. Absence of a Domestic League

One of the biggest blows to Nepali football has been the lack of a consistent domestic league for nearly three years. A league is the backbone of any football ecosystem. Without regular competition:

• Players lose match fitness and motivation
• Clubs struggle financially
• Fans lose emotional connection
• Young talents remain unnoticed

The suspension of league football created a vacuum that stalled the growth of the game at every level.

2. Players Leaving the Country

With no stable league and limited income opportunities, many Nepali footballers have been forced to leave the country in search of better careers. Some move abroad to play in lower divisions, while others abandon football altogether for employment opportunities. This talent drain has weakened the national pool and disrupted team continuity.

3. Poor Football Governance

Administrative instability and delayed decision-making have also contributed to the downfall. Frequent conflicts, lack of transparency, and inconsistent planning have hurt the credibility of football authorities and discouraged sponsors and investors.

4. Lack of Grassroots Development

Grassroots football has not received the attention it deserves. Without structured youth leagues, academies, and school-level programs, the future pipeline of Nepali football remains fragile.

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Steps to Revive the Charm of Nepali Football

1. Relaunch a Sustainable Domestic League

The immediate priority must be the return of a structured, annual domestic league with:

• Fixed calendars
• Financial transparency
• Club licensing systems
• Promotion and relegation

A stable league will restore confidence among players, fans, and sponsors alike.

2. Provide Financial Security to Players

Players need assurance that football can be a viable career. This can be achieved by:

• Minimum wage policies for league players

• Timely salary payments

• Player insurance and welfare programs

Financial stability will reduce the urge to leave the country.

3. Encourage Player Retention and Return

Special incentives should be created to:

• Retain top domestic talents
• Attract Nepali players playing abroad back into the league
• Provide national team exposure through league performance

This will strengthen both club football and the national team.

4. Strengthen Grassroots and Youth Football

Revival starts from the ground up. Football authorities must:

• Launch age-group leagues (U-13, U-16, U-19)
• Partner with schools and local governments
• Support private academies with clear pathways to professional football

Youth development ensures long-term sustainability.

5. Improve Governance and Transparency

Strong leadership is essential. Football bodies must:

• Ensure transparent decision-making
• Involve stakeholders (clubs, players, fans)
• Follow international best practices

Good governance will attract sponsorships and rebuild public trust.

6. Reconnect with Fans and Media

Football survives on passion. To bring fans back:

• Improve matchday experiences
• Promote players as role models
• Use digital platforms for storytelling and engagement

When fans feel connected, the charm naturally returns.

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Conclusion

The decline of Nepali football is not irreversible. While the absence of a league and the migration of players have damaged the game, they also highlight exactly what needs fixing. With strong governance, a stable league, player-focused policies, and grassroots investment, Nepali football can reclaim its lost glory.

Reviving the charm of Nepali football is not just about winning matches—it is about rebuilding belief, pride, and a future where young players dream of representing Nepal on the biggest stage.

Sudurpaschim Royals Vs Lumbini Lions NPL Final Match Analysis

A comprehensive analysis and preview of the Sudurpaschim Royals vs Lumbini Lions final in the Nepal Premier League (NPL) 2025. The title deciding match played today (13 Dec 2025) at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur. 

Playoff Performances

Sudurpaschim Royals

- Finished top of the league stage and secured a place in the playoffs early, demonstrating consistency throughout the tournament.

- In Qualifier 1, they beat Biratnagar Kings by 77 runs to reach the final, showing both batting depth and bowling control.

Lumbini Lions

-Entered the knockout stage and won successive matches: a solid 4-wicket win over Kathmandu Gorkhas in the Eliminator and a 40-run victory over Biratnagar in Qualifier 2 to book their final spot — their first-ever NPL final appearance

Key Strengths

Sudurpaschim Royals

Consistency & Depth: Topped the league stage with reliable all-round performances, especially with experienced players delivering under pressure. 

Bowling Attack: Able to defend totals by making early breakthroughs; bowlers like Abinash Bohara have been impactful throughout the tournament.

Batting Options: With aggressive batters such as Binod Bhandari providing stability and muscle, Royals can post or chase competitively. 

Lumbini Lions

Momentum: Riding a wave of form with five consecutive wins to reach the final — including key contributions from captain Rohit Paudel and import players.

Bowling Discipline: Shared wickets among bowlers in crucial games, particularly in the Biratnagar upset, indicating depth and adaptability. 

Underdog Advantage: With nothing to lose and a rising confidence curve, they can put pressure on favorites early in the match.

Prediction & Expectations

While Lumbini Lions carry great momentum and excitement, most cricket analysts lean toward Sudurpaschim Royals as favorites due to:

- Their superior performance in the league stage.

- Stronger overall balance and experience

- Head-to-head advantage and psychological edge going into the final

Predicted Winner: Sudurpaschim Royals (approx. 60-65% probability in many previews) — but as in all T20 finals, the game can turn quickly.

Fan Opinion: Prason Dhakal 

Prason Dhakal, a passionate NPL follower, strongly believes Lumbini Lions will lift the trophy, and his confidence revolves around one key figure:

“Lumbini Lions will win the final because of Rohit Paudel.
Big matches need big players, and Rohit has that calm mindset and match-winning ability.
When pressure comes, he performs.”

Why fans like Prason back Rohit Paudel:

🧠 Composure under pressure – Rohit has shown maturity beyond his age

🏏 Captain’s responsibility – leads from the front in knockout games

🔥 Big-match temperament – capable of anchoring or accelerating as needed

🇳🇵 National team experience – accustomed to high-stakes situations

For many fans, Rohit isn’t just a player — he’s the X-factor who can turn the final on its head

Nepali Football Season Is Back ! Know About the New Exciting ANFA National League

After the years long wait domestic tournament in nepali football is finally back. ANFA has made final decision to start ANFA national league from Poush 25. Due to lack of football activities both fans and players were affected , but with this decision few relief will be felt and fans will enjoy domestic football after a couple of years of waiting. ANFA has also committed to start top tier Marty's Memorial 'A' division league after one months of National League.

ANFA national league is a round robin football league where 17 Teams will participate. Among seventeen teams 11 teams are from previous A division league 2 newly promoted team for A division league and remaining 4 teams have been qualified from the President league. With this exciting fixture fans will miss the renowned teams like 3 star & Himalayan Sherpa Club. Three Star club was relegated to 'B' division league so it was not eligible for National League whereas Himalayan Sherpa Club denied to register for National League. 

ANFA has not revealed a cash price and venue's for national league. Most probably it will be Dashrath Stadium. Also it will be a huge challenge for ANFA to drag back the Nepali football crowd and retain the charm of Nepali football.  

 

ANFA to upgrade Dashrath Stadiums Pitch to a Hybrid Pitch

 All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) has proposed Dashrath Stadium for hybrid pitch upgradation under AFC's equal pitch program (A newly approved continent-wide infrastructure initiative by the AFC Development Committee to raise football facility standards across Asia ). Its goal is to strengthen grassroots and community-level football by increasing the number and quality of playable pitches.

A hybrid pitch is a natural grass football field reinforced with synthetic (artificial) fibers.
It is not fully artificial turf — it is 95% natural grass and 5% synthetic support fibers.

How it works

• Artificial fibers are stitched or injected into the soil.

• Natural grass grows around these fibers.

• This makes the field stronger, more durable, and able to handle more matches without damage.

Why AFC promotes hybrid pitches ?

AFC prefers hybrid pitches in its infrastructure programmes because:

1. More durable than natural grass
   They don’t get damaged easily in rain or heavy use.

2. Better playing quality
   The ball rolls smoothly like on natural grass.

3. Lower injury risk compared to full artificial turf

4. Suitable for professional stadiums
   Many top stadiums (like Wembley, Emirates, Allianz Arena) use hybrid grass

5. Maintainance cost is low.

6. Feels like real grass

Under the AFC Equal Pitch Programme, AFC prefers:

• Hybrid pitches for national stadiums and major venues

• Artificial mini-pitches (40m × 20m) for community and grassroots

• Natural grass where climate allows good maintenance