From a goalless first half, Nepal lost the momentum against Iran, who kept an upper hand scoring three goals in nine minutes and clinched the title in the tri-nation friendly.

Thailand, with two wins in two games, qualified for the 2026 Asian Cup in China. Nepal will now soon be landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

It is the second version of the tournament, which was first organised as the ANFA President League, between seven teams in 2021.

Nepali players, who had entered the ground to earn three points, walked away with their heads down.

The Gorkhalis hold the Southeast side for a 1-1 draw until the first half but a red card for their prolific midfielder cost them dearly.

Nepal are currently at the bottom of the group table comprising Malaysia and Laos.

Nepal and India are slated for a friendly in Shillong on October 27 during the FIFA International Window.

Winless so far in the 2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers, Nepal face a stern test in Ho Chi Minh City—but a FIFA investigation into Malaysia’s eligibility breach could yet reshape their chances.

The win has raised the chances for Nepal to reach the semi-final stage. Nepal are in Group A, including Bangladesh. All seven active SAARC countries have participated in the tournament.

Simara Stadium hosted over 6,000 fans in the final match, highlighting the growing popularity of women’s football in the country—and the need for a quality ground outside Kathmandu.

Jhapa FC defeats Rapti FC with a late goal on Monday to enter the Women’s League as the final and fifth team.

Nepal’s head coach Matt Ross keeps noting down about his players, a scene that recurred during the team’s 0-0 stalemate against Bangladesh on Saturday.

Nepal’s skipper Kiran Chemjong, in the pre-match conference on Friday, laments the inconsistency of the domestic league and the lack of a home ground. He also expects a memorable farewell to his friend and teammate Bharat Khawas.

The Albiceleste top the South American qualifying table for the 2026 World Cup in North America with 38 points

ANFA promises efficient crowd management, but supporters must still collect ticket slips and accept randomly assigned blocks.

Nepal are looking for their maiden berth in the Asian Cup, having failed to advance from all five editions of the qualifiers they have participated so far.

Neglect and poor management have pushed the stadium off the ‘international standards’. Unless serious renovations begin, its identity as the country’s footballing home may fade away.

With the loss, Nepal now have one win in four games and are third on the points table.

According to FIFA, the training sessions are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to ensure tournaments are organised prioritising child safety.

Second defeat leaves Nepal’s title hopes hanging.