Clinical Nepal Edge Sri Lanka to Close in on Semi-Final Spot
MALE – Nepal claimed a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sri Lanka at the National Football Stadium, in a match full of missed chances and shots off the post. Building on momentum from their previous victory, this second straight Group A win puts the Gorkhalis close to the knockout rounds. The decisive moment came in the first half, when Subash Bam finished a precise cross from captain Dharmendra Kunwar, controlling on the right and sending a low shot into the far corner, putting Nepal ahead. Despite the close score, Nepal controlled the game and would have scored more if not for the goalposts. Subash nearly had a hat-trick—one shot hit the crossbar, and Kunwar’s header struck the post. In the 60th minute, Subash beat three defenders but hit the upright. As a result, the posts kept Sri Lanka in contention.  Meanwhile, Sri Lanka struggled and finally created a chance in the 75th minute. Hussain Abdullah met a long pass from Mohammed Khathim, but his weak header was saved by Nepali goalkeeper Pemba Norbu Bhote. Nepal sought another goal late in the match when Bigyan Khadka’s fast solo run down the right ended with a heavy touch that allowed goalkeeper Nadal Senapala to intervene. Shortly after, Senapala also swiftly denied Ganesh Pulami Magar, keeping the margin at one. Nevertheless, Nepal stayed composed under pressure. After beating Bhutan 2-1, Nepal are well placed before facing the Maldives. If Nepal draws against the Maldives, it will advance to the semi-finals regardless of other Group A results. ---
