By Sachit Subba • Football • Jul 03, 2025 13:36 PM • 9 views
Kathmandu — Nepal's youth footballing scene is set to come alive this Friday as the much-anticipated ANFA U-16 Youth League kicks off, promising fierce competition, vital exposure for rising talents, and substantial cash prizes to fuel motivation. In a press briefing held on Thursday, the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) confirmed that preparations for the tournament have been finalized. The governing body also officially announced the prize structure for the event, which will feature all 14 A-Division clubs vying for top honors. The champions of the league will walk away with a cash prize of Rs 100,000, while the runners-up will receive Rs 50,000, ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah revealed. In addition, standout individual performers — including the best player, best goalkeeper, and the most disciplined team — will each be rewarded with Rs 15,000.
In a move aimed at easing financial burdens and encouraging quality preparation, ANFA has allocated Rs 3.5 lakh to each participating club as preparation support. Shah noted that the total estimated budget for organizing the youth league stands at a substantial Rs 1 crore, 2 lakh, 36 thousand, and 330 rupees, reflecting the growing investment and interest in grassroots football development. The opening fixture of the league will see Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC) lock horns with Shree Bhagawati Club, promising a thrilling curtain-raiser between two sides with strong developmental programs.
This U-16 competition, beyond the silverware and financial incentives, holds greater significance in the context of Nepalese football. It represents ANFA's concerted effort to institutionalize youth development, ensure regular match exposure for upcoming players, and bridge the gap between academy systems and professional setups. Over the years, Nepal has struggled to maintain a consistent talent pipeline, often showcasing flashes of brilliance at the youth level but lacking continuity. Tournaments like the ANFA U-16 Youth League are designed to combat that stagnation by creating a competitive ecosystem year-round, where young footballers are tested, scouted, and nurtured. With a professional setup, financial backing, and full club participation, the league could serve as a launchpad for Nepal's next generation of national stars, giving fans, scouts, and stakeholders plenty to watch for in the weeks ahead. 📍 Matchday 1: Manang Marshyangdi Club vs. Shree Bhagawati Club – Friday, kick-off at ANFA Complex.
