Preview: Nepal vs. Bahrain – prediction, team news, lineups
Nepal, despite a challenging journey, advanced to the second round of Asian qualifying by overcoming Laos 2-1 on aggregate. However, their hopes are tempered by their 175th world ranking, marking them as the 12th-lowest-ranked country in Asia. Their lack of qualification for an Asian Cup underscores the uphill battle they face in World Cup qualification, having never come close since their inaugural international match against China in 1972.
Vincenzo Annese’s squad faced setbacks with a 4-0 defeat to the UAE and a 2-0 loss to Yemen. The recent defeat to Yemen saw a late goal from Omar Al-Dahi and Mohammed Abdullah Al-Dahi sealing the victory. The team now braces for a double-header against Bahrain, crucial to avoiding elimination with two games remaining.
On the opposing side, Bahrain, having reached the Asian Cup’s last 16 in January, transitions under the helm of Dragan Talajic. With a focus on securing their maiden World Cup qualification, Bahrain’s confidence is boosted by their 12th-highest ranking in Asia and their strong position in Group H.
Asia’s allocation of eight automatic qualifying spots for the 2026 World Cup enhances Bahrain’s prospects. Despite recent changes, Bahrain aims to advance to the final stage of qualifying, with their eyes set firmly on the World Cup berth they narrowly missed in previous attempts.
With UAE facing Yemen, Bahrain’s path to the third round seems promising. However, their immediate focus lies on overcoming Nepal in their upcoming fixture.
Current point table of World Cup 2026 qualifiers Group H
| Team | Pld | W | D | L | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Arab Emirates | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 6 |
| Bahrain | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| Yemen | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| Nepal | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Nepal and Bahrain Brace for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers
Nepal’s Uphill Battle
Nepal’s journey faces significant challenges despite advancing to the second round of Asian qualifying. Their low world ranking and lack of previous Asian Cup qualifications underscore the difficulties ahead.
Bahrain’s Transition Under Talajic
Bahrain, buoyed by their recent Asian Cup performance, transitions under Dragan Talajic’s leadership. With a strong ranking in Asia, Bahrain aims for their maiden World Cup qualification.
Optimism Amid Challenges
Despite challenges, Bahrain eyes a spot in the final stage of World Cup qualifying, bolstered by Asia’s expanded allocation of qualifying spots. However, the immediate focus remains on overcoming Nepal in the upcoming fixture.
