By Sachit Subba • Age Group sports • Aug 15, 2025 14:15 PM • 60 views
Kathmandu — Head coach Nabin Nyaupane has finalised Nepal's 23-man squad for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers, trimming down from the 32 players who had been in closed camp training. The announcement came on Friday, with the squad featuring a blend of domestic standouts, senior team regulars, and overseas-based talent. Among the notable inclusions are midfielder Aaron Thapa, winger Ayush Ghalan and midfielder Kritishratna Chhunju from the senior national team, along with Santosh Khatri, who is currently playing league football in Bhutan. Nepal have been drawn in Group K alongside Syria, the Philippines, and hosts Tajikistan. The matches will take place in Tajikistan from September 3 to 9. The team will be aiming to make an impact, having last participated in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in 2022.
Nepal U-23 Squad
Goalkeepers: Krishna Moktan, Amit Tamata, Bishal KC
Defenders: Bibek Gurung, Bishal Nepali, Lahan Subba, Nigam Lama, Ram Thapa, Shankar Tharu, Simant Thapa
Midfielders: Abhishek Syangtang, Ayush Ghalan, Aaron Thapa, Niraj Karki, Dipesh Gurung, Kritishratna Chhunju, Pujan Thapa, Sanjiv Lama, Santosh Khatri, Sujan Magar, Sumit Shah
Forwards: Rohan Khadgi, Nirajan Dhami
Nepal will now intensify their preparations, with the coaching staff hoping the mix of experience and youthful energy can steer the side toward a strong showing in Dushanbe.
