Under the FIFA International Window, the Tri Nations Women’s International Friendlies 2025 has officially kicked off in Meghalaya, India. The senior women’s national team of Nepal is competing alongside India and Iran in this exciting three-nation football series.
For Nepal, this friendly series is more than just preparation — it’s a key test ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
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Iran Women’s Football Team—The Western Asian Force
FIFA Ranking: 70th
Iran’s women’s football team represents the West Asian Football Federation and has grown remarkably since officially forming in 2005.
Major Achievements
- Qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2022 (for the first time ever)
- Already booked a spot for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 (Australia)
- WAFF Championship Finalist: 2005, 2007, 2011
- CAFA Women’s Championship Runner-up: 2018, 2022
Despite frequent final appearances, Iran has yet to lift a major title—a record similar to Nepal’s in South Asia.
Head-to-Head: Nepal vs Iran
Nepal and Iran have met only once so far — during the Hero Women’s Gold Cup 2019 held in Bhubaneswar, India.
The result? A dominant 3–0 victory for Nepal
Scorers:
- Anita Basnet (41’)
- Sabitra Bhandari “Samba” (79’, 89’)
Interestingly, five players from that squad — Anjila Subba, Hira Kumari Bhujel, Saru Limbu, Anita Basnet, and Sabitra Bhandari — are still part of the team today.
However, this time Iran looks stronger than ever — as proven by their 2–0 victory over India in the opening match on October 22, with Sara Didar scoring a brilliant brace.
India Women’s Football Team – The South Asian Giant
FIFA Ranking: 63rd
India remains one of South Asia’s most successful women’s football nations, with five SAFF Women’s Championship titles.
However, in recent years, Nepal and Bangladesh have emerged as major challengers, dethroning India’s dominance.
Highlights & Records
- 5-time SAFF Women’s Champion (2010–2019)
- Knocked out by Nepal in SAFF 2022 semifinals
- AFC Women’s Asian Cup Finalists: 1980, 1983
- Qualified for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 after 23 years
The last clash between Nepal and India during the 2022 SAFF semifinal was one of the most dramatic in history — ending 1–1 before Nepal won in penalties, eliminating the hosts.
That painful loss still haunts India, making their upcoming match on October 27 (Kartik 10) a revenge showdown.
Nepal Women’s Football Team – The Rising Power of South Asia
Led by captain Sabitra Bhandari “Samba”, Nepal’s women’s team is a blend of experience and youth.
Players like Preeti Rai, Rekha Paudel, Anita Basnet, and goalkeeper Anjila Subba bring both energy and balance to the squad.
The Chelis are determined to make a strong statement against Iran and India in this Tri Nations series.
Nepal’s Match Schedule
| Date | Fixture | Time (NST) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 24 (Friday) | Nepal vs Iran | 6:15 PM | Shillong |
| Oct 27 (Monday) | Nepal vs India | 6:15 PM | Shillong |
| Oct 29 (Wednesday) | Nepal vs India (Unofficial Friendly) | 4:45 PM | Sikkim |
Live Broadcast Details
All matches of Nepal, India, and Iran in the Tri Nations Women’s International Friendlies will kick off at 6:15 PM Nepal Time. Fans can watch the live streaming via SajhaKhel.com or the FIFA Plus App (for global viewers).
What to Expect
- Nepal vs Iran (Oct 24): A battle of pride — can Nepal repeat their 2019 3–0 win?
- Nepal vs India (Oct 27): A fierce rivalry and emotional rematch!
- India vs Iran (Oct 22): Already ended 2–0 to Iran — the benchmark has been set!
Expect high-intensity football, close contests, and emotional drama under the Shillong floodlights.
FAQs
Q1. When does Nepal play its first match?
On October 24, 2025, against Iran at 6:15 PM NPT.
Q2. Where is the tournament being played?
At Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong, Meghalaya, India.
Q3. How can fans watch the matches live?
Matches will be streamed live via SajhaKhel.com and FIFA Plus App.
Q4. Who is the captain of Nepal Women’s Team?
Star striker Sabitra Bhandari “Samba” leads the squad.
Q5. Has Nepal ever beaten Iran before?
Yes! Nepal defeated Iran 3–0 in their only encounter at the 2019 Hero Women’s Gold Cup.