Nepal eyeing AFC Solidarity Cup success
The national football team of Nepal is all set to compete in the first edition of the Asian Federation Confederation Solidarity Cup kicking off on November 2nd in Malaysia.
This is the inaugural edition of the Asian Federation Confederation (AFC) Solidarity Cup and a replacement for AFC Challenge Cup that was held for the last time in 2014.
The competition is designed exclusively for minnows of Asian football in the Asian Continent. Never mind the status of the tournament, it offers footballers the much needed international exposure and opportunity not only to compete against one another but more importantly, showcase their talent.
AFC conceived the tournament with the sole purpose to ensure that lesser-known teams get to play more international matches.
The competition is an ideal platform for upcoming talents seeking opportunities and attention on a global stage.
For countries lacking opportunities to play adequate international tournaments, AFC Solidarity Cup is a very positive, promising endeavor undertaken by AFC.
Besides Nepal, Brunei, Timor, Sri Lanka, Macau, Mongolia and Laos are vying for the top honor. The six losing teams in the first round of the 2018 World Cup and 2019 Asian Cup qualifiers were eligible to compete in the tournament.
Likewise, three teams losing the play-off in round 2 of the 2019 Asian Cup qualifiers were eligible to compete as well. The tournament was reduced to seven teams, following the withdrawal of Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Based on statistics, history , weaknesses and strengths of seven competing teams, there is very little to differentiate them.More or less, they share many commonalities. specially in playing standards and fitness level.
Furthermore, they play a similar brand of football in terms of technicality, approach and style. The tournament is wide open and there are no clear favourites. Any team can prevail.
That said, fundamentals of success comes into play at the end of the day. That is to say, consistency, individual commitment to a team effort, confidence ,positivity and cashing in on goal scoring chances are crucial elements for any team’s success.
It is not an overstatement to say that Nepal stands a strong chance of winning the tournament. I truly believe they have a genuine shot at the title.
The team has the potential to make big things happen. But at the same time it is extremely important that players reach their potential and display enthusiasm and fighting spirit.
Following the incredible 2016 South Asian Games success, the team seems to be in high spirits and brimming with confidence like never seen before. It is a good thing, however, it is imperative that they remain focussed and should avoid the mistake of being overconfident.
The path to success is by no means easy. Rather they have to earn it through hard work and high work ethic. Not to forget, there is still plenty of room for them to improve and grow.
Japanese Koji Gyotoku faces his first real big challenge as Nepal head coach since he took over from Polish- born American Jack Stefanowski.
The team trained for the competition at home and failed to play a single tune up match as part of the preparations due to usual mismanagement of All Nepal Football Association.
Though Coach Gyotoku has prefered silence, but to be fair , he had his share of problems preparing the team .Understandably the preparation was hindered by limited access to resources and inadequate training facilities.
Despite everything, the Coach is hopeful of securing a good result.He has a very talented rejuvenated lot raring to go.How far he has motivated, drilled and urged players to better effort and performance is yet to be seen.
The 23- man squad is a blend of experienced and upcoming exciting players
in the likes of Anil Gurung, Rabin Shrestha, Biraj Manandhar Kiran K Limbu, Bimal Gharti Magar Magar, Anjan Bista , Nawayug Shrestha & Bikram Lama with plenty of international experiences.
They must rise to the occasion, show absolute collective determination and make the most of every opportunity. Also it is important to make a good start and build early momentum.
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