SAFF Women's Championship 2026

Nepal's women's football team began their SAFF Championship camp under uncertainty due to a power struggle between the All Nepal Football Association and National Sports Council, risking Nepal's participation. Coaching staff continued training while players were barred from interviews to avoid addressing administrative disputes.

Nepal was granted an indirect slot for the 2026-27 AFC Challenge League but faces likely loss of it due to organizational issues and club licensing problems affecting domestic football clubs' eligibility. This continues a pattern of Nepal's domestic league challenges preventing participation in recent AFC seasons, impacting financial and international opportunities.

Nepal's women's national football team began their first phase of closed training camp on April 27, 2026, in preparation for the SAFF Women's Championship scheduled from May 25 to June 7, 2026, in Goa, India. The team aims to win the championship title for the first time.

Nepal was placed in Group A of the SAFF Women’s Championship 2026 alongside Sri Lanka and Bhutan. The tournament will be held in Goa from May 25 to June 6, 2026, with defending champions Bangladesh in Group B with India and Maldives.

ANFA named 35 players for a closed camp despite its suspension by the National Sports Council, risking FIFA sanctions that could affect Nepal’s participation in the SAFF Women’s Championship. FIFA opposes the suspension and urges lifting it to avoid sanctions.

The All Nepal Football Association announced a 35-member preliminary squad for the SAFF Women's Championship 2026, targeting their first title under coach Nabin Neupane. The tournament is scheduled in Margao, Goa, India from May 25 to June 7, 2026.