In the heart of the Himalayas, where the mountains touch the sky and dreams often seem as distant as the peaks themselves, a young girl named Anjila Tumbapo Subba dared to dream big. Her dream? To represent Nepal on the grand stage of European football. For years, this dream seemed almost impossible, given the limited resources and investment in women's football in Nepal. But Anjila, with her unwavering determination and exceptional talent, has proven that no dream is too big, no mountain too high to climb.
The Early Days: A goalkeeper in the Making
Anjila's journey began in the rugged terrains of Nepal, where she first discovered her love for football. Despite the challenges of limited infrastructure and support, she honed her skills, playing for the departmental side Armed Police Force (APF) for over a decade. Her incredible reflexes, leadership qualities, and passion for the game quickly set her apart. She became a cornerstone of the Nepal national team, earning respect and admiration from teammates and rivals alike.
Her talent didn't go unnoticed beyond Nepal's borders. In the 2021-2022 season, Anjila played for the Pakistani club Masha United, and later for India’s Sethu FC in 2023. These experiences broadened her horizons, but her ultimate goal remained clear: to play in Europe.
The Turning Point: A LinkedIn Connection
In July 2024, Anjila's life took a dramatic turn when she connected with Srdan Berovic, a European football agent, on LinkedIn. This serendipitous connection would change the course of her career. Srdan, intrigued by Anjila's profile, began reviewing video footage of her performances, mostly from Nepal national team matches. What he saw was a goalkeeper with incredible reflexes, sharp instincts, and a commanding presence on the field.
Anjila, besides being an excellent goalkeeper, is also a fantastic person! She told me her goals and ambitions! How we made her dream come true, she wrote history! Which I am very proud of..and we will continue to write the pages of history! Me and Anjila are in daily contact, we analyze every training session, every match, we plan the future... - Srdan Berovic on Anjila's future
Impressed by her skills, Srdan dug deeper, reaching out to Anjila's peers and rivals to gather more insights. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive—Anjila was not just a talented goalkeeper but also a fantastic person with a strong work ethic and a burning desire to succeed.
The "Europe" Project: A Dream Takes Shape
Srdan and Anjila soon agreed to a video meeting, where they discussed her goals and ambitions. Anjila shared her lifelong dream of representing Nepal in European football, and Srdan, moved by her passion, decided to help her achieve it. Thus, the "Europe" project was born.
Srdan quickly got to work, leveraging his network to secure opportunities for Anjila. Within a short time, he had three offers on the table—two from Greek clubs and one from a Turkish Super League club. The Greek club Nees Atromitou showed the most interest, willing to wait through the lengthy visa process that would eventually allow Anjila to join them.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Visa Challenge
The visa process proved to be a significant hurdle, taking longer than anticipated. Two clubs withdrew their offers, unable to wait any longer. But Nees Atromitou remained patient, even playing the first half of the season with just one goalkeeper as they waited for Anjila. Their faith in her was unwavering, and after six months of perseverance, Anjila finally arrived in Athens, ready to begin her European journey.
A New Chapter: Making History in Greece
Anjila's arrival in Greece was met with great enthusiasm. Her story, one of resilience and determination, quickly captured the hearts of the Greek public. Journalist Sofia Karakasidi featured Anjila in the popular Greek sports newspaper Parapolitika, sharing her inspiring journey with the world. Anjila's first international article in Apogevmatini further cemented her status as a trailblazer for Nepalese football.
On the field, Anjila wasted no time making an impact. In her second appearance for Atromitou, she played a crucial role in a 2-1 victory against Gpo Kastorias, helping her team avoid relegation. As of February 12, Atromitou stands safely in the 8th position in the Greek Women's League, securing their place in the top division for the next season.
Returning Home: A Hero's Welcome
Anjila's success in Europe has not only elevated her career but also brought pride to her nation. She recently returned to Nepal to represent her country in the International Women's Championship 2025, which kicks off on February 17 in Kathmandu. Featuring teams from Myanmar, Lebanon, and Kyrgyzstan, the tournament is a significant opportunity for Nepal to showcase its talent on the international stage.
With her experience in European football, Anjila is poised to be a key player for Nepal. Her journey from the rough soils of Nepal to the bigger stages of Europe serves as an inspiration to countless young athletes in her homeland. She has shown that with talent, determination, and the right support, dreams can indeed come true.
A Legacy in the Making
Anjila Tumbapo Subba's journey is more than just a personal triumph; it is a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers in Nepal and beyond. Her story, made possible by the support of Srdan Berovic and the patience of Nees Atromitou, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in one's dreams.
As Anjila continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation, her legacy will undoubtedly endure, reminding us all that no dream is too distant, no mountain too high to climb. The door she has opened for Nepalese football will remain ajar, inviting future talents to follow in her footsteps and carve their own paths to greatness.
Celebrating a Legend: The Inspiring Story of Nepal's Football Captain
The captain of the Nepalese national football team has become a household name, inspiring countless young girls to pursue their dreams in sports. Her journey, marked by resilience and determination, has made her a legend in the world of football. Her story is now being shared with the world through a groundbreaking biopic that premiered in Hong Kong in December. The biopic, set to release worldwide on March 13, 2025, is based on the true events of her life. It carries a powerful message: nothing is impossible. What makes this film even more special is that the captain herself played the lead role, bringing authenticity and passion to the screen.
This film marks a historic milestone as the first-ever biopic on a Nepali football player. It not only celebrates her achievements but also shines a spotlight on the growing influence of Nepali sports on the global stage. Renowned filmmaker Milan Champs, known for his exceptional work, has announced that the proceeds from the movie will be used to build a house for Anjila in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu. This initiative reflects the film's commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those who have contributed to the nation's pride.
As the world prepares to witness this inspiring story, let’s celebrate the legacy of a true sports icon. Her journey reminds us that with passion and perseverance, dreams can become reality. Mark your calendars for March 13, 2025, and be part of this historic moment!