When the Nepali women’s national football team returned home on Monday after competing in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers in Uzbekistan, one key figure was missing—head coach Patrick De Wild.
While the team flew back to Kathmandu, De Wild headed to his home country, Belgium, according to the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA).
De Wild had accompanied the squad to Uzbekistan with hopes of qualifying for the prestigious Asian Cup. But Nepal’s dream was dashed after a penalty shootout defeat against hosts Uzbekistan in a decisive Group F match. With Nepal finishing second in the group, their campaign ended without qualification.
Although foreign coaches not returning immediately with Nepali teams after international events is not unprecedented, De Wild’s absence appears to reflect deeper issues.
Friction within the team?
The team failed to qualify, but more tellingly, tensions appeared to brew behind the scenes—particularly regarding the captaincy. The leadership confusion reportedly led to friction between the coach and team management. The result was disappointment on the field and a visibly strained atmosphere off it.
Upon their return, players and staff—except newly appointed captain Sabitra Bhandari—refused to speak to the media. ANFA General Secretary Kiran Rai acknowledged the heartbreak of missing out on qualification, claiming the team “played well but lost technically in penalties,” and emphasised the need to prepare for future competitions.
But De Wild’s abrupt departure raised questions. ANFA has not officially commented on why he did not return with the squad. General Secretary Rai only said, “The coach has gone home. We haven’t had the chance to discuss anything since the final match.”
Asked about De Wild’s future, Rai added, “We’ll discuss and make a decision. He was appointed for one year, but we don’t know his current mindset after the result. Once he returns, we’ll talk it out.”
Discontent and unclear communication
Sources within ANFA reveal that De Wild has already written to the association about his concerns, though the contents of the letter remain confidential. Still, it’s clear that he was unhappy with ANFA’s management and internal dynamics.
Had the environment been positive and communication smooth, De Wild might have returned with the team—even in defeat. But his absence speaks volumes.
The team currently has no upcoming international fixtures, and after missing out on the Asian Cup, World Cup, and Olympic pathways, Nepal’s women’s side now looks ahead only to the SAFF Championship and possible friendly matches. At present, there is no concrete plan for the immediate future.
The captaincy controversy
Before departing for Uzbekistan, Nepal had not announced a team captain. Only just before the first match against Laos was Renuka Nagarkoti named captain. But at kickoff, it was Sabitra Bhandari who wore the armband.
Insiders say De Wild did not submit the captain’s name until just an hour before the match, prompting the team management to temporarily assign Renuka. ANFA’s official page initially listed Renuka as captain, but Sabitra ultimately led the team on the field.
The incident hints at internal miscommunication. Sabitra went on to captain all three games, while former captain and goalkeeper Anjila Tumbapo Subba remained on the bench. Her exclusion reportedly triggered the leadership reshuffle, with Anjana Rana Magar starting in goal for all three matches.
Despite the confusion, ANFA has yet to clarify whether Sabitra will continue as captain or if another leader will be appointed. General Secretary Rai said the matter would be reviewed with the coaching staff and players.
However, he contradicted himself by claiming Sabitra was the vice-captain and simply stepped up when Anjila did not play—despite no prior announcement of Sabitra’s appointment as vice-captain.
Sabitra acknowledges team tensions
Upon arrival, Sabitra publicly acknowledged internal tensions. “There were some early challenges and minor disputes. Before the matches, I could not even sleep properly due to the pressure,” she said.
Although she refrained from sharing details, she hinted that the team eventually united. “It was internal, but we played as one team and gave a positive performance. I hope such conflicts don’t happen again.”
What’s next for the Coach—and the Team?
It is now undeniable that coordination between players, coaching staff, and management was lacking. The biggest question is whether De Wild will return and continue leading the team—or if his tenure has ended quietly.
Equally critical is how ANFA addresses the captaincy conflict and rebuilds trust within the team. With many current players nearing the end of their careers, ANFA will need to invest in younger talent, develop a long-term strategy, and ensure that Nepal’s dream of playing in the Asian Cup becomes a reality someday.
For now, however, that dream remains postponed—and the future of both the team and its coach hangs in the balance.
