Nepal’s U-20 football team made a winning start to the SAFF U-20 Championship, defeating Sri Lanka 1-0 at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato on Sunday.
A solitary goal from Nirajan Dhami in the 24th minute proved to be the difference between the two sides. Despite creating several other scoring opportunities throughout the match, Nepal couldn’t capitalize on them.
Samir Tamang had an early chance to put Nepal ahead, but his effort was off target. Sri Lanka also had a good opportunity to equalize just before halftime when Mohammed’s shot from distance was saved by Nepal goalkeeper Ziarath Sheikh.
The second half saw Nepal dominate possession, but they were unable to find a second goal despite chances for Tamang, Ashwin Ghorasaini, and Anil Bamjan. Dhami came close to doubling Nepal’s lead in injury time, but his shot hit the crossbar.
Nepal will face Bangladesh in their final group-stage match on August 22. A victory over Bangladesh would secure Nepal’s place in the semi-finals.
Six South Asian nations are participating in the tournament, divided into two groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
India and Bhutan will face off in Group B later today.
