Nepal to Face Laos in Historic Women’s Football Match as Asian Cup Qualifiers Begin

Nepal are all set to begin their AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifier journey this Sunday in Uzbekistan, facing a new opponent — Laos — in their opening Group F match.

But this is more than just another match. This will be Nepal women’s national team’s 100th international game — a huge milestone in Nepal’s women’s football history, four decades after their international debut.

Adding to the occasion, newly appointed head coach Patrick De Wilde will be leading the national side for the first time. Nepal are aiming for a strong start by defeating Laos. The match will be played at the Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent at 6:15 PM Nepali time.

On the same day, host nation Uzbekistan will face Sri Lanka. Uzbekistan are considered the strongest team in the group, with home advantage as an extra boost. However, Nepal are also seen as serious contenders for the top spot.

Only the group winner will qualify for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, so every match — and even goal difference — could play a crucial role.

At Saturday’s pre-match press meet, coach De Wilde said the team is both mentally and physically ready. “The best part of football is playing high-level international matches. We’re prepared and we’ll give our best,” he said.

Star forward Sabitri Bhandari Samba emphasized the importance of starting strong, while midfielder Renuka Nagarkoti shared her excitement about playing this historic match under a new coach.

First-Ever Match Against Laos

This will be the first time Nepal’s women’s team face Laos. While Nepal and Laos have met in men’s football before, this matchup is new for the women’s teams, making it a fresh challenge for both sides.

Nepal have been active in international women’s football lately, including a recent friendly against Thailand — a stronger side. Laos, by comparison, have played fewer matches in recent months.

Nepal haven’t won in their last four matches. In February, they drew 2-2 with Myanmar in the league stage of the Women’s Championship but lost 2-0 in the final. In June, they lost 2-0 and 1-0 in two matches against Thailand.

Nepal’s last wins came in that same championship — beating Lebanon and Kyrgyzstan 1-0 each in the group stage.

Laos have also struggled recently. In their last four matches, they lost to Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, then suffered a 1-0 defeat to Singapore and held Timor-Leste to a goalless draw. These were their only four games in 2024.

Compared to Laos, Nepal have more match experience and better exposure. Nepal are ranked 100th in the latest FIFA rankings, while Laos sit 107th.

With history, pride, and qualification on the line — this is more than just a football match for Nepal.