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🇳🇵 Nepal /Sports

Viral sensation Sajani Tamang, 11, begins elite football journey with APF FC

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • An 11-year-old football prodigy, Sajani Tamang, has been signed by Nepal's top women's club, APF FC, to nurture her talent.
  • Tamang gained national attention through viral videos during the FIFA World Cup, showcasing her exceptional skills.
  • APF FC will cover her education and living expenses, aiming to develop her into a top player amidst a surge in Nepali women's football popularity.

Sajani Tamang, an 11-year-old football prodigy from Nepal, has embarked on a life-changing journey with APF FC, the country's most decorated women's football club. Recognizing her exceptional raw talent, the club has committed to boarding, mentoring, and training her, aiming to mold her into one of Nepal's finest players.

Tamang first captured the nation's imagination during the FIFA World Cup when videos of her effortlessly dribbling past larger opponents and scoring long-range goals went viral. This digital buzz has now translated into a concrete path toward elite football. APF FC's head coach, Jibesh Pandey, stated that while an official contract isn't possible due to her age, the club will cover her education at a nearby boarding school and her living expenses. "She is a very bright student as well, so we are looking for the best," Pandey said. "Studying nearby will allow her to join regular training."

We cannot sign an official contract with Sajani because she is a minor right now. But we will be covering her education and stay at the best boarding school nearby. She is a very bright student as well, so we are looking for the best. Studying nearby will allow her to join regular training.

— Jibesh PandeyAPF women's head coach explaining the club's commitment to Sajani Tamang.

Tamang's football journey began around five years ago in Devchuli. Her talent was further recognized during a 60-day grassroots training camp organized by the municipality, where she helped her team win the inter-municipal tournament and was named player of the tournament. Videos from this event further propelled her into the national spotlight. Coach Pandey also noted her coachability, observing how quickly she incorporated feedback on her passing. As Nepali women's football experiences an unprecedented surge in popularity, Tamang is emerging as the next captivating story in the sport.

Sajani is also coachable. When I saw some flaws in her passing, I gave her some guidance. And she took it so well and mitigated the mistake in the next passes.

— Jibesh PandeyAPF women's head coach commenting on Tamang's ability to learn and improve.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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