Nepal secured their first victory over Singapore with a goal from Gillespye Jung Karki, marking a significant milestone in their football history. Head coach Matt Ross praised the team’s performance, especially that of goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong. Despite the win, Nepali fans expressed dissatisfaction with the broadcast quality of the match, which affected their viewing experience.
On March 19, Nepal achieved a historic victory over Singapore at the National Stadium in Kallang, marking their first win against this team after a series of previous losses. The sole goal of the match was scored by Gillespye Jung Karki in the 12th minute, giving Nepal significant momentum under their new head coach, Matt Ross. The match was particularly notable as it showcased Nepal’s strong performance, breaking a historical pattern of defeats against Singapore which dated back to 1982.
Nepal’s football journey with Singapore began on May 5, 1982, when they lost 0-2 during the King’s Cup. Subsequently, they managed a goalless draw in 1986, but in 1989, faced two substantial losses during the World Cup Qualifiers. The recent victory not only signifies a milestone in Nepal’s football history but also highlights the potential of their squad under Ross’s guidance.
Coach Matt Ross expressed confidence in his team, particularly praising goalkeeper Kiran Chemjong for his exceptional performance, including key saves that secured the match. Chemjong’s 104th appearance for the national team underscored his importance in maintaining the lead amid Singapore’s persistent attacks. The team’s defensive efforts, coupled with a bit of fortune from the crossbar, helped preserve their narrow advantage.
While the win garnered enthusiastic responses from supporters, there was significant discontent among Nepali fans regarding the viewing experience of the match. Many were frustrated by the poor broadcast quality that hindered their ability to fully appreciate the game, including the crucial goal. This dissatisfaction was compounded by the earlier decision from the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to host the match in Singapore instead of Nepal due to infrastructure concerns.
Despite these issues, the match saw a strong turnout of Nepali supporters in person, demonstrating the growing passion for football in the country. Looking ahead, Karki emphasized the momentum from this victory and expressed aspirations to carry this forward into their next match against Malaysia.
Nepal’s victory over Singapore marks a significant milestone in their football history, ending a long-standing pattern of losses. Under new coach Matt Ross, the team demonstrated skill and resilience, with Karki’s early goal proving pivotal. However, the viewing experience for fans remained a concern, highlighting the need for improved broadcasting arrangements in future matches. The team looks forward to sustaining their momentum in upcoming games, particularly against Malaysia.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
