Kathmandu, Nepal – Nepal’s women’s football team delivered a statement performance, decimating the Maldives 11-0 in their second match of the 2024 South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Women’s Championship. The emphatic victory propelled Nepal to the top of Group B and sent a clear message to their rivals: they’re a force to be reckoned with.

Rekha Paudel, the standout performer of the match, showcased her exceptional goal-scoring abilities with a remarkable five-goal haul. Her clinical finishing and composure in front of the goal were instrumental in Nepal’s dominance. Preeti Rai contributed significantly with a hat-trick, while Sabita Rana Magar, Anita KC, and Amisha Karki added one goal each to complete the rout.

From the outset, Nepal controlled the game’s tempo, dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Their early goals set the tone for the match, and the Maldives could not mount any meaningful resistance. Nepal’s defensive solidity, combined with their attacking prowess, made them a formidable opponent.

With this victory, Nepal has taken a significant step towards securing a place in the tournament’s semi-finals. Their next challenge will be against Sri Lanka on Thursday, and a win in that match would guarantee their progression to the knockout stages.