Kathmandu, September 9

Nepal women’s national football team faced a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Uzbekistan in the second match of the Nadezhda Cup in Karakol, Kyrgyz Republic today.

Nepal, who began the campaign with a 8-2 victory over hosts Kyrgyzstan yesterday, conceded one goal each on either half against Uzbekistan.

Karachik Ludmila put Uzbekistan ahead in the 34th minute when she scored in an open net in rebound after Nepal goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba blocked her initial attempt.

After the break, Safina Rushania doubled the lead in the 50th minute on her solo effort when she dodged as many as three defenders before firing past goalkeeper Subba.

Nepal will now face Tajikistan in the third and final match of the league round on Tuesday. Uzbekistan are in strong position to make it to the final of the four-team tournament, while Nepal can advance with a win over Tajikistan.

The top two teams will play in the championship match, while the remaining two sides will face each other in the third place playoff match on Thursday.

Nepal, who have not played competitive tournament since taking part in the second round of the Olympic Qualifiers in May, have taken the event as the preparation for the upcoming South Asian Games, slated for December 1-10 in Kathmandu and Pokhara.