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In a much-anticipated moment for football enthusiasts across Nepal, the second edition of the National Super League (NSL), the country's premier football tournament, is set to kick off on November 24th in Kathmandu. The journey to this moment has been riddled with suspense and frustration, with the first edition of the tournament in 2021 garnering unprecedented fanfare.
Heralded as a groundbreaking initiative, the NSL aimed to revolutionize Nepali football by introducing a competitive platform for professional football, a rarity in the country. The inaugural season generated significant interest, providing a much-needed boost to the sport. The involvement of prominent corporate houses in the league added a crucial dimension, signaling a positive shift in the football landscape.
Credit for this transformative venture goes to Nepal Sports and Events Management (NSEM), the NSL organizer, showcasing their commitment to nurturing football talent. With an agreement spanning eight years between NSEM and the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), financial support of Rs 172.2 million was pledged to ANFA for NSL organization.
However, the eagerly awaited second season faced an unexpected setback in 2022 due to a dispute between 'A' Division Clubs and NSL organizers regarding player recruitment. This unresolved issue led to the indefinite postponement of the tournament, highlighting organizational shortcomings. The hiatus underscored the importance of meticulous planning for the continuous success of such a impactful tournament.
In the current challenging state of Nepali football, plagued by player departures and underperforming national teams, NSL's significance has grown exponentially. The competition serves as a vital platform for aspiring players, offering them the opportunity to realize their dreams of becoming professional footballers.
Despite the administrative setbacks within ANFA, the 2023 NSL season promises an expansion with nine franchises representing six provinces. Newcomers Jhapa FC, Sporting Ilam De Mechi FC, and Birgunj United FC join the fray, while Biratnagar City FC withdraws from the tournament.
A total of 46 foreign players, predominantly from Africa, have been recruited by the nine teams, adding an international flair to the competition. Notable names include Didier Drogba, the former captain of Ivory Coast and Chelsea striker, set to be the star attraction of the event.
With an exciting mix of local and foreign talent, the 2023 NSL season kicks off with a clash between defending champions Kathmandu Rayzrs and debutants Sporting Ilam De Mechi FC. As the anticipation reaches its peak, hopes are high that NSL will deliver a thrilling and entertaining spectacle, living up to the expectations set by its successful inaugural edition.