Nepal made a winning start to the Vianet International Women's Championship 2025 with a 1-0 victory over Kyrgyzstan at Dasharath Stadium on Sunday.
Bimala Chaudhary’s towering header in the 10th minute proved to be the difference, as she connected with a precise cross from Sabita Rana Magar to give Nepal an early lead.
Star forward Sabitra Bhandari, who joined the squad late on Tuesday, started on the bench but was introduced at halftime by head coach Rajendra Tamang.
Kyrgyzstan’s goalkeeper Dilnura Abibulla delivered an outstanding performance, making crucial saves to deny Sabita Rana Magar, Rekha Poudel, and Preeti Rai. Nepal came close to doubling their lead in first-half stoppage time when Rashmi Kumari Ghising’s shot struck the crossbar. Sabita’s follow-up attempt also hit the woodwork, keeping the scoreline unchanged.
Preeti Rai was named Player of the Match for her stellar display and was awarded a cash prize of Rs 25,000.
In the tournament’s opening match, Myanmar defeated Lebanon 3-1.
Nepal will face Lebanon in their second group-stage match on Thursday.
Deputy Prime Minister of Nepal and Minster for Urban Development Prakash Man Singh inaugurated the Vianet International Women's Championship in the presence of Minister of Youth and Sports Teju Lal Chaudhary, Former Minister Mohan Bahadur Basnet, NSC Member Secretary Tanka Lal Ghising, ANFA President Pankaj Bikram Nembang, Vice President Dipak Khatiwada, and General Secretary Kiran Rai.
