Nepal out of SAFF Championship for first time in history due to FIFA suspension

Nepal has been excluded from the SAFF Championship for the first time in the tournament's history after its FIFA suspension was not lifted.

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) had given Nepal until September 30 to get its suspension revoked, but the necessary process could not be completed within that period. FIFA had suspended the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) indefinitely on June 24, citing third-party interference in ANFA's affairs.

Since the suspension, Nepal has been missing one international competition after another. Only six countries will now take part in the 15th edition of the tournament, to be held in Bangladesh until November 17.

Group A comprises hosts Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, while Group B comprises India, Pakistan and the Maldives. Had the suspension been lifted, Nepal would have been placed in Group A.

Nepal had played all 14 previous editions, finishing runners-up once, third once, and reaching the semifinals five times.

Former captain, former coach and former ANFA vice-president Upendra Man Singh said the tournament is also an opportunity to get contracts with foreign professional clubs, so players have lost a platform to prove themselves. He remarked that players are bearing the brunt of a political dispute at the top level.

Education and Sports Minister and government spokesperson Sasmita Pokharel had already indicated on Tuesday that participation in SAFF would not be possible.