Nepal U-20 National Team demonstrated remarkable bravery and skill in a friendly match against Church Boys United, narrowly losing 1-0 at the ANFA Complex. Despite the defeat, the young squad’s performance against the reigning Nepal league champions, who are stacked with national team players and international recruits, was commendable and promising.
Church Boys United, currently preparing for the AFC Challenge League qualifiers with a match against Bhutanese club Paro Football Club on August 13, fielded a formidable team. Their lineup, rich with seasoned national players and talented foreign professionals, provided a stern test for the U-20 team.
The Nepal U-20 players displayed resilience and determination throughout the match, standing strong against their more experienced and physically imposing opponents. Their ability to hold the champions to a single goal highlighted their defensive capabilities and tactical awareness, offering a glimpse of their potential on the regional stage.
As they look ahead to the 2024 SAFF U-20 Championship, where they will face Sri Lanka in their opening match on August 18, the young squad can draw confidence from their performance. The narrow defeat against such a strong opponent will undoubtedly serve as a valuable learning experience, helping them to hone their strategies and build team cohesion.
Their bravery and performance against Church Boys United have set a positive tone for their upcoming campaign, and the team is determined to make a strong impression in the SAFF U-20 Championship.