By Sachit Subba • Football • Jun 24, 2025 00:32 AM • 149 views
With national pride stitched into every seam of their jerseys and history beckoning on the horizon, the Nepali women's national football team has officially departed for Uzbekistan, where they will compete in the AFC Women's Asia Cup Qualifiers with hopes of ending a 26-year drought. The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), alongside high-ranking government officials, gave a formal farewell to the squad on Monday. The send-off, held at ANFA headquarters, saw Youth and Sports Secretary Dr Hari Prasad Lamsal, ANFA President Pankaj Bikram Nembang, and Vice President Dawa Lama express their best wishes and belief in the squad's potential to make history. Nepal has been drawn into Group 'F', where they will face Laos (June 29), Sri Lanka (July 2), and hosts Uzbekistan (July 5). Only the group winner will secure a direct ticket to the 2026 AFC Women's Asia Cup, set to be staged in Australia. For context, Nepal last featured in the continental showpiece back in 1999—a generation ago. That long absence adds extra weight to every challenge that lies ahead in Tashkent. "This team represents not just footballing ability but also the resilience and transformation of Nepali women's sport over the past two decades," said ANFA President Nembang at the farewell ceremony.
🟢 Squad Breakdown
The squad is captained by Anjila Tumbapo Subba, a commanding presence between the sticks and a veteran of Nepal's international campaigns. The blend of experienced names and rising talent across the pitch has given the head coach ample tactical flexibility. 🇳🇵 Final Squad for AFC Women's Asia Cup Qualifiers
All eyes will be on Sabitra "Samba" Bhandari, the prolific striker and Nepal's all-time leading goal-scorer. Her sharp instincts in front of goal could be the X-factor Nepal needs, especially against a physically disciplined Uzbek side. Meanwhile, the midfield—anchored by the industrious Saru Limbu and technically gifted Preeti Rai—will play a crucial role in dictating tempo and distributing effectively to wide and forward channels.
🔎 A Tournament of Fine Margin
The group format leaves little room for error. With only one team advancing, goal difference, game management, and individual brilliance may all play a significant role in determining Nepal's fate. "We're not going just to compete—we're going to qualify. This team is ready to give its all for the flag," said a confident Anjila Tumbapo before boarding the team bus. Nepal's quest for continental recognition is not just about football. It's a statement about how far women's sports in the country have come—and how much farther it's ready to go. The dream begins on June 29 against Laos. The journey, however, is already inspiring.
