What a fight! Nepal’s women’s football team poured their hearts out but fell 4-2 in a tense penalty shootout against Uzbekistan in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. The match, held at Bunyodkor Stadium in Tashkent, ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw after regular time. Sabitra Bhandari, Nepal’s star captain, led with a stunning hat-trick, showcasing the team’s fierce determination. Despite the loss, Nepal’s spirit shone brightly.
The game was a rollercoaster. Uzbekistan took an early 3-1 lead, with a penalty from Matfuna Soyimova after a handball by Nepal’s Saraswati Hamal. A red card to Uzbekistan’s N. Ergasheva before halftime gave Nepal hope. Sabitra Bhandari struck twice in the 70th and 71st minutes, leveling the score and pushing the match to penalties. Nepal’s resilience was clear, but the shootout proved tough.
In the penalty shootout, Nepal’s Geeta Rana and Sabita Rana Magar scored, but misses from Bhandari and goalkeeper Anjana Rana Magar sealed Uzbekistan’s victory. Uzbekistan’s M. Soyimova, Y. Zoirova, M. Khikmatova, and M. Aminijonova converted their shots, securing a spot in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Nepal’s dream of qualifying ended, but their fight was inspiring.
Nepal’s performance was a testament to their growth. Facing a higher-ranked Uzbekistan, they showed no fear. Coach Patrick De Wilde praised the team’s mental strength, while fans on X called the effort “valiant.” The loss stings, but Nepal’s passion and team spirit promise a bright future for women’s football.
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