Is Dasharath Stadium nearing its end as Nepal’s home of football?
Summary
Dasharath Stadium, Nepal's primary football venue, has been suspended by the AFC for not meeting international standards, forcing the national team to play home matches abroad. Major renovations are needed for the stadium to host future AFC and FIFA events.
Key Points
- Dasharath Stadium has been declared unsuitable by the AFC for hosting international matches since February 2023 due to safety and infrastructure concerns.
- Nepal has been forced to play home matches of FIFA World Cup qualifiers and AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in opponents' or neutral venues.
- The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) acknowledged the need for major renovations and has sought government and National Sports Council support.
- New football stadium projects are proposed in Bhaktapur and Jhapa, but completion will take years, leaving fans unable to watch key matches in Nepal for the near future.
