Kathmandu, September 27 —
The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) on Saturday announced the final 23-member squad for the upcoming AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers. Head coach Chet Narayan Shrestha finalized the roster after weeks of training and selection.
The qualifiers will be held in Chonburi, Thailand, where Nepal has been drawn in Group F alongside the hosts Thailand and Turkmenistan. Nepal will open its campaign on October 15 against Turkmenistan before facing Thailand in the next group fixture.
Squad Composition
The team blends youth and experience, with players chosen across all key positions.
Goalkeepers (3): Jharana Dumrakoti, Laxmi Oli, Bhupika Shahi.
Defenders (7): Diksha Rayamajhi, Elizakumari BK, Gyansu Dolma Lo, Samjhna Chand, Purnima Tadi, Anu Maji, Minmaya Shrestha, Ansu BK.
Midfielders (8): Rabina BK, Kritisha Tamang, Ashika Karki, Sahara Limbu, Babatika Karki, Bhumika Budhathoki (Captain), Ayusha Reule, Sirjana Baduwal.
Forwards (4): Asmita Magar, Pooja Giri, Yamakumari BK, Anita Ranamagar.
Leadership and Expectations
Midfielder Bhumika Budhathoki has been named captain of the squad. According to coach Shrestha, her leadership qualities and international exposure at youth level make her a natural choice to lead the team.
ANFA officials said the primary goal of the qualifiers is to provide young players with international exposure and strengthen the foundation of women’s football in Nepal. Coach Shrestha further added that the team has undergone intensive preparation and aims to progress beyond the group stage.
While the group poses a tough challenge with Thailand being the favorites, Nepal is eyeing a strong start against Turkmenistan to build momentum and confidence.
All eyes will now be on this young Nepali side to see how they perform on the continental stage.
