Kathmandu, Nepal – In an exciting development for Nepali football, the national team has embarked on a journey to England to compete against the England C team in an international friendly match. The highly anticipated event, organized by the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), marks a significant milestone for the sport in the Himalayan nation.
Amidst a ceremonial send-off at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato, the 23-member Nepali squad, led by head coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese, received warm wishes and support from various dignitaries, including British Ambassador to Nepal, Rob Fenn.
Ambassador Fenn, himself a lifelong football enthusiast and supporter of the English club Stoke City, reminisced about his childhood playing days and extended his heartfelt support to the Nepali national team. “Football has the power to transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse backgrounds,” he said, expressing his hope for a positive outcome for the Nepali side.
The friendly match against the England C team, comprising non-league players, holds immense significance for Nepali football. ANFA President Pankaj Bikram Nembang expressed his gratitude to former ANFA President Karma Tshering Sherpa for initiating the groundbreaking endeavor, which aims to provide invaluable exposure and learning opportunities for the Nepali players.
“Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the current ANFA Executive Committee has remained committed to pursuing this initiative,” Nembang stated. “We believe this match will serve as a valuable learning experience for our national team, allowing them to test their skills against formidable opposition and gain insights that will contribute to the overall development of Nepali football.”
In a symbolic gesture, President Nembang handed over a Nepali jersey to Ambassador Fenn, further strengthening the bond between the two nations through the universal language of sports.
The Nepali squad boasts a talented blend of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, all eager to showcase their skills on the international stage. Goalkeepers Kiran Kumar Limbu, Abhishek Baral, and Bishal Sunar form a formidable last line of defense, while the backline is fortified by the likes of Chhiring Lama, Sanish Shrestha, Abhishek Limbu, Bishal Basnet, Bimal Panday, Saubhagya Rai, Yogesh Gurung, and Rohit Chand.
The midfield will be marshaled by the experienced Phatteman Ghale, Mani Kumar Lama, Bharat Khawas, Utshab Rai, Manish Dangi, and Laken Limbu, tasked with orchestrating the team’s attacking forays. Spearheading the forward line are the prolific Dinesh Henjan, Anjan Bista, Gillespye Jung Karki, Hisub Thapaliya, Samir Tamang, and Sanjeeb Bista, all determined to leave their mark on the international stage.
The Nepali contingent is accompanied by a dedicated team of officials, including Head of Delegation Manish Joshi, Purushottam Thapa (Official), Uttam Bhandari (Team Manager), Prabesh Katuwal (Coach), Binod Maharjan (Goalkeeping Coach), and Lokendra Kunwar (Physiotherapist).
As the Nepali national team prepares to take on the England C side, the anticipation and excitement among football enthusiasts in Nepal are palpable. This historic friendly match represents a significant step forward for Nepali football, providing a platform for the players to showcase their talents, gain invaluable experience, and inspire the next generation of footballers in the country.
With the support of the nation behind them, the Nepali national team is determined to leave a lasting impression and return home with valuable lessons that will contribute to the continued growth and development of the beautiful game in Nepal.
