Aashish Chaudhary's late goal secures victory for Nepal as Pakistan fails to earn a single point in Group A throughout the tournament.
KATHMANDU, JUNE 27
Nepal wrapped up their participation in the SAFF Championship 2023 on a positive note, securing a narrow 1-0 triumph against Pakistan at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium on Tuesday.
In the latter stages of the second half, Aashish Chaudhary scored the decisive goal, contributing to Pakistan's status as the only team from Group A that failed to secure any points in three matches.
Right from the start, the Gorkhalis dominated the game, exerting pressure on Pakistan's defense. Shahzad Anwar's team appeared to lack creativity, often resorting to clearing the ball upfield to neutralize any offensive threats.
Nepal's first significant opportunity came in the 12th minute when Bimal Gharti Magar's free kick missed the target after being fouled by Pakistan's defender, Syed Abdullah Shah, just outside the penalty box.
Pakistan appealed for a penalty in the 23rd minute after Rahis Nabi was brought down by Laken Limbu inside the Nepal box. The Pak Shaheens called for a spot-kick, but referee Sinan Hussain swiftly dismissed their claim.
Nepal continued to mount pressure and had two quick chances in the 40th and 41st minutes. Sanish Shrestha's shot, following a solo run into the Pakistan box, was initially blocked by Suliman, leading to another Gorkhalis attack.
Manish Dangi passed the ball to Magar from the right wing, who then took a couple of touches before attempting a grounded shot. Yousuf Ijaz Butt made a save to maintain the level scores.
Pakistan enjoyed a better start in the second half, creating an opportunity in the 48th minute when a long ball caught Nepal's defense off guard.
Nabi's header reached Otis Khan, who attempted a bicycle kick, but the shot went straight into Kiram Kumar Limbu's hands without trouble.
On the other hand, Nepal came close to scoring in the 68th minute from a free kick after Limbu was fouled by Mohammad Umar Hayat just outside the box on the left side.
However, Devendra Tamang's well-aimed shot swerved in mid-air and struck the crossbar, denying Nepal a goal.
Nepal coach Vincenzo Alberto Annese urged his team to push forward and pressurize Pakistan's defense, and their persistence paid off in the 80th minute.
Limbu, receiving the ball just outside Pakistan's box, set up substitute Chaudhary, who took a first-time volley. Although the shot lacked power, it managed to find its way into the net, eluding a diving Butt.
Glimpses from the encounter:
