29/10/2024
On October 27, 2024, the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu hosted a thrilling semifinal clash between Nepal and India in the SAFF Women’s Championship. Referee Om Choki from Bhutan, however, became a focal point of controversy due to several critical decisions that heightened the game’s tension and drama.
Early on, a clear handball by an Indian player in the D-Box went unpenalized, denying Nepal a penalty opportunity. In the second half, the situation escalated as Choki issued a red card to Nepal’s Rekha Paudel, despite replays showing foul of Indian Player, not by the Rekha. Later, even after Nepal scored a goal, she disallowed it, sparking frustration and disbelief among fans and players alike. As tensions rose, play was suspended for over an hour, with players and officials locked in intense discussions.
When the game finally resumed, Sabitra Bhandari (SAMBA), with an assist from Preeti Rai, seized the moment, scoring a goal that electrified the stadium and etched itself into Nepalese football history. The match ultimately went to a tiebreaker, where Nepal triumphed with a 4-2 victory, securing their spot in the finals. This video captures the emotional rollercoaster of the game and explores the possible geopolitical factors among Nepal, India, and Bhutan that may have influenced its course.
Full video story in the comment section.
vs
