KATHMANDU:- Super-sub Sukriya Miya bagged a dramatic 90th-minute winner to seal Nepal’s 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in their AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers clash on Friday.
This marks Nepal’s first win of the campaign, following a 1-1 draw against hosts Bhutan. The narrow result keeps Nepal’s qualification hopes alive, with four points now on the Group A table.
Next up, Nepal face a tough test against three-time champions DPR Korea on Sunday. After defeating Bhutan 10-0 today, DPR Korea leads the table with six points from two straight victories.
Both Nepal and Saudi girls arrived at Changlimithang Stadium desperate for a result. Saudi Arabia were reeling from a 15-0 thrashing by DPR Korea in their opener.
It was Nepal that dominated possession and kept Saudi keeper Fajar Sakkaf busy throughout. The West Asian side had a golden chance at the half-hour mark, but Maram Aryahya’s long-range effort rattled the post.
Nepal responded with attacking intent and earned a penalty in the 38th minute after Manisha Sen was fouled. Meena Deuba stepped up but struck the woodwork.
Just before the break, Saudi’s Lama Alshathry danced into the box but blazed her shot over from close range.
After the restart, Saudi Arabia held firm and frustrated Nepal until the final minute. With the clock ticking, Anisha Rai launched a long-range free-kick from Nepal’s half. The Saudi defence failed to clear, allowing Deuba to pounce and whip in a cutback from the right flank.
Purnima Rai cleverly dummied the ball, leaving it for Miya, who was unmarked. Miya made no mistake, slotting home a composed finish past the stranded keeper. Miya came as a substitute in 56th minute replacing Sushila KC.
After the match, Nepal head coach Yam Prasad Gurung praised the team’s effort but admitted he wasn’t fully satisfied. “I’m happy we got the three points, but the performance needs improvement. The girls gave it their all,” he said.
Looking ahead to the DPR Korea clash, Gurung added, “We’ll rely on counter-attacks against a very strong side.”