Thousands of young footballers vie for 14 spots in Nepal's FIFA U15 World Cup squad

Despite the All Nepal Football Association's suspension by FIFA on June 24, which led to Nepal's exclusion from the SAFF Championship, the country has received a sliver of hope. Football stakeholders had feared a slow death for the sport in Nepal, given the domestic scene's prolonged struggles, including the absence of the A-Division league for over three years and ongoing disputes between the National Sports Council and ANFA.

However, ANFA announced on August 13 Nepal's participation in the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival in Azerbaijan from October 22 to 31. Nepal can compete despite the suspension because FIFA has opened the tournament to all 211 member associations, a move described as part of its "unwavering commitment to promoting the youth game."

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Nepal’s emerging players will get an important platform and exposure there.

The selection process has seen an overwhelming response, with around 5,000 youngsters participating in local tryouts. This highlights that football remains alive and kicking in Nepal, despite the administrative and structural challenges. For instance, the Morang District Football Association conducted selections across 10 venues, attracting 855 children, of whom 118 were selected for the next stage.

ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah stated that Nepal's emerging players will gain an important platform and exposure. The selection process, which concluded at the district level on Tuesday, will now move to the provincial level from August 28 to 30, culminating in a final central selection in Kathmandu from September 3 to 6. This initiative offers a crucial opportunity for young talent to shine on an international stage.

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We saw 855 children coming for the tryouts in the 10 venues. Of them, 118 were selected. From a final district-level selection, we plan to send around 50 of the best players for the provincial selection.