Nepal Super League-3 began today with seven teams, including past champions Kathmandu and Lalitpur. The tournament uses a single round-robin format leading to playoffs, culminating in the final on April 26. This season features international coaches and a significant number of foreign players, aiming to intensify the competition.
The Nepal Super League-3 commenced today, featuring seven teams: Kathmandu Rayzrs, Lalitpur City FC, Pokhara Thunders, Butwal Lumbini FC, Dhangadhi FC, FC Chitwan, and Jhapa FC. The inaugural match pits past champions Kathmandu and Lalitpur against each other, expected to attract a sold-out audience and include a performance by singer Durgesh Thapa. Historically, Kathmandu has triumphed over Lalitpur three times in their previous four encounters.
The tournament follows a single round-robin format where each team will compete once. The top four teams will then progress to two qualifiers and an eliminator, ultimately leading to the final scheduled for April 26. Notably, this edition has fewer teams—seven—compared to the previous edition’s nine, with Birgunj United FC and Sporting Ilam De Mechi FC absent this time. Six of the seven participating teams, excluding Jhapa, have been participants in all three seasons.
This season highlights an influx of international talent, including several foreign coaches. Lalitpur’s coach Simon Nicholas Grayson, a former player for iconic clubs such as Leeds United, has been instrumental in steering his team. Similarly, teams like Kathmandu, Dhangadhi, and Butwal are also led by foreign coaches. Nepali coaches, Nabin Neupane, Suman Shrestha, and Prabesh Katuwal, also guide Chitwan, Pokhara, and Jhapa respectively.
Each team has embraced an international strategy, enlisting a maximum of six foreign players. Defending champions Lalitpur have retained two critical foreign players: goalie Jeffrey Baltus from France and Nigerian striker Imoh Ezekeil, who contributed significantly in the previous season. While teams such as Dhangadhi, Jhapa, and Pokhara have yet to fill their quota, the remaining teams are poised to feature the maximum number of international talent, allowing up to five foreign players on the field at any given time.
The Nepal Super League-3 launches with an intriguing lineup of teams and intensified competition. With past champions in the mix, notable foreign coaches, and international players contributing to their squads, the tournament promises thrilling matches, culminating in a final on April 26. The shift to a seven-team format indicates a streamlined competition that may enhance the quality of play. The presence of both national and formidable foreign talents points towards an exciting season ahead.
Original Source: kathmandupost.com
