By a Staff Reporter
Kathmandu – The 14th edition of the SAFF Championship is set to commence in Bangalore, India, with Nepal squaring off against formidable opponents, Kuwait. The much-anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at 3:45 PM NST at the iconic Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
The SAFF Championship 2023 brings together a total of eight teams, including six SAFF nations and two invited guests, vying for the honor of clinching the title in the largest football tournament in South Asia.
India, the host nation, boasts an impressive record, having secured the championship title on eight occasions, making them the most successful team in the tournament’s history. As the current title contenders, India enters the competition with high hopes of adding yet another triumph to their trophy gallery.
The inaugural match of the SAFF Championship will witness Nepal battling it out against guest participants Kuwait. Looking at their head-to-head record, Kuwait has consistently held the upper hand against Nepal. The two sides have clashed on nine occasions, with Kuwait emerging victorious eight times and one match concluding in a draw.
Their most recent encounter took place during the AFC Asian Cup qualifying match on June 11, 2022, where Kuwait emerged triumphant with a commanding 4-1 victory over Nepal.
Despite the historical dominance of Kuwait, the Nepali team, boasting a roster of promising young talents, is expected to put up a fierce fight on the field. Led by their renowned Italian Head Coach Vincenzo Alberto Annense, who has gained popularity and recognition in India, Nepal aims to make a strong impression in the tournament opener.
