AFC U-16 Qualifiers Group C – Nepal and Iraq Starts with Win

Though the Newly appointed Captain Bimal Gharti Magar didn't show is best game against Bahrain in the Opening game of AFC U-16 Group C qualifier,Nepal starts their journey quite well as they collect all available points from Bahrain in the opening match of AFC U-16 qualifiers against Bahrain. Iraq defeats Turkmenistan 8-1 in the first match.Nepal started with early pressure over the opponent as they possessed attack early in the game. Anjan Bista had first say in the game as he found a ball in an error from Bahrain midfield and he placed over the keeper Alazab who could do nothing to save Anjan’s terrific attempt on goal.

Nepal continued their attack as 19th minute header from Bimal Gharti Magar remained alazab’s victim as the Bahrain keeper did his best to deny the goal. Bahrain lacked attack in front of the home crowd as the host team leaded 2-0 at the end of the first half and the home team enjoyed most of the possession in the first half.

Bahrain builds back the momentum in the second half, they created some attacks, however failed to beat Nepali keeper Roman Rasaili who display his heroics in most of the occasion.
Nepal almost got their third goal as Bikash Thapa was in one vs. one position; however the Bahraini custodian Alazab blocks Thapa to deny the goal. Bahrain possess a quick counter attack but the final shot from Abadulla Marhoon was nicely blocked by Nepalese goalkeeper Rasaili who remained firm and constant throughout the game.

Bimal Gharti Magar missed couple of opportunitunities, one of which was his 72nd minute effort that turned out useless as his final shot moved away from the top corner.The U-16 captain remained great at midfield intercepting and tackling, he was good on initiating some moves but the star striker failed to produce the magic he was renowned for as he missed on another header which could have added another goal for Nepal.

Meanwhile in the opening match of the group, highly rated Iraq whips Turkmenistan 8-1. Nepal will play Iraq in second match of the qualifiers.