Nepal vs Laos; Nepal will play a must-win match against Laos today in the ongoing AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers. The game, part of Group F, will kick off at 5:45 PM Nepali time at the New Laos Stadium.
Both Nepal and Laos suffered defeats in their opening matches—Nepal lost 2-0 to Malaysia, and Laos were thrashed 5-0 by Vietnam. With both teams yet to register a point, today’s game is crucial to stay in contention.
Nepal head coach Matt Ross has made it clear that his team is not taking Laos lightly. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ross said, “Laos is an aggressive and organized team. They are strong at home, so we need to be very careful. A small mistake could cost us the game. That’s why we are treating this match very seriously.”
Ross also hinted at some possible changes in Nepal’s lineup compared to the team that played against Hong Kong in a recent friendly. Defender Sanish Shrestha, who started in that match, is injured and unlikely to feature.
Captain Kiran Chemjong confirmed the team’s readiness for the challenge, saying, “We are fully prepared—both physically and mentally. I’ve played the last four games, and we are excited to face Laos again.”
There is also a big moment awaiting Anjan Bista. With 13 goals for Nepal, he is currently tied with former greats Hari Khadka and Nirajan Rayamajhi. Scoring today would make him the all-time top scorer for the national team.
Nepal has a solid track record against Laos, having won four and drawn two of their previous six encounters. That history could give the team confidence heading into this vital match.
This is Nepal’s second away fixture in the final round of qualifiers for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, set to be held in Saudi Arabia. A win here is essential if Nepal wants to stay in the qualification race and move past the disappointment of their first match.
