Football: The divine craze
The history of football in Nepal is not quite old. It is among the youngest football playing nations. It is a bit astonishing to see the divine craze Nepalese have for football. Despite being a very small nation and with relatively small population, football has always been a remarkable means of unity and pride of Nepalese.
Regarding Nepali football, it has not been able to produce any exceptional results in the platform of world football, apart from some tournaments held amongst South-Asian countries. However, the support, cheers and enthusiasm of the Nepalese fans have made football the most popular and entertaining game in the country. Be it international match or national, the fans always cheer and support their team enthusiastically. It is soul stirring to hear loud, clear and energetic voices resounding “Nepal” “Nepal” “Nepal” in the stadiums.
Nepalese fans always love to see their young lads performing in their own country with other international players. The only stadium “Dasharath Stadium” that barely meets the requirements for organizing International football is full of countless fans waving national flags tirelessly while carving the national emblems on their faces. In addition, “Dhaka Topi” and a symbol of bravery “Khukuri” are equally used by Nepalese fans.
They don’t see 11 young footballers playing out there in the stadium but a complete Nepal clashing for a win with everything they have. Down the line, players too get confident due to the support provided by their fans. The tickets completely being sold before the games commence shows the popularity of football with Nepalese. Those deprived of the opportunity to see the games directly from the ground also do not miss out on the games. Flocks of people love watching and supporting their fans from their home television. The streets, restaurants and many important chowks are filled to watch football. It’s more than just a ritual to those fans. Hence, it is inspiring to see energy and ever burgeoning love for football shown by Nepalese fans.
The enthusiastic bunch of Nepalese fans are there always to scream whether they loose or win and to support their teams. Nepal is not competitive enough to perform in the international arena, but it is a very lucky country to have such supportive fans. We wish to see more exciting football and Nepal embrace numerous trophies.