Nabin Neupane named Nepal Women’s Head Coach

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 26: The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) has officially appointed Nabin Neupane as the new head coach of the Nepal women's national football team.

The announcement was made on Thursday, ending a two-month vacancy following the resignation of Belgian UEFA Pro Licence holder Patrick De Wilde. De Wilde had taken charge during the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers but stepped down after a dispute with team management over the captaincy. Before his departure, he criticised ANFA for internal mismanagement and stated he would not return unless reforms were made.

Former national footballer Neupane brings a wealth of experience, having coached various youth teams and domestic clubs.  Most recently, he managed the Nepal U-23 side during the AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Uzbekistan. According to ANFA, his contract will run until the SAFF Women's Championship in 2026. Neupane received his appointment letter from ANFA General Secretary Kiran Rai.

His first assignment will be an international friendly against India on 26 October in Sikkim. The team will then travel to Indonesia for the FIFA Women’s Football Series, a three-nation tournament running from 26 November to 2 December, where Nepal will face Indonesia and Chinese Taipei.

Supporting staff appointments have also been confirmed. Bhagwati Thapa and Rajkumar KC will serve as assistant coaches. Bindra Dewan continues as team manager, Shila Giri remains the physiotherapist, and Bikash Gurung takes charge as kit manager.