FC Chitwan vs Pokhara Thunders: The Nepal Super League (NSL) 2025 sees a strong presence of foreign coaches, with four out of seven teams led by international managers. However, today’s match between FC Chitwan and Pokhara Thunders will be a battle between two Nepali coaches, Nabin Neupane (Chitwan) and Suman Shrestha (Pokhara). The match is set to kick off at 6 PM NST at Dasharath Stadium.
FC Chitwan vs Pokhara Thunders: Captains and Key Players
FC Chitwan’s captain Anjan Bista is a seasoned forward with 13 international goals for Nepal. He holds the unique record of being the marquee player and captain for three different NSL teams across three seasons. Meanwhile, Pokhara Thunders’ captain Nawayug Shrestha returns to lead his side after playing for Chitwan last season. Young forward Samir Tamang is Pokhara’s marquee player for this edition.
Chitwan’s Overhaul for Success
Chitwan has struggled in past NSL seasons, failing to reach the playoffs. To change their fortunes, they have revamped their squad with notable additions, including national team stars like Anjan Bista, Sumit Shrestha, and Abhishek Limbu. Their foreign lineup features last season’s standout player Toric Jebrin, experienced Jamaican goalkeeper Amal Knight, and American defender Jonathan Campbell. The squad also includes Uzbekistan’s Nodirbek Mavlonov and forward Malik Yusuf.
Pokhara’s Youthful Approach
Pokhara Thunders topped the league table last season but fell short in the playoffs. This season, they rely on a young squad, with key national team player Ayush Ghalan leading the midfield. Other experienced players include Suraj Jyu Thakuri and marquee signing Samir Tamang. The team also secured foreign reinforcements, bringing back goalkeeper Priso and forward Joe Widulaj. Nigerian striker Michael Chukwubunna and versatile midfielder Saidodoston Jafarov add more firepower to the squad.
Full Squad List
Pokhara Thunders:
Goalkeepers: Krishal Moktan, Foreign Keeper (Unnamed)
Defenders: Padam Bhattarai, Ekraj Budhathoki, Narendra Chaudhary, Gaurav Shrestha, Sakal Regmi, Praveen Kumar Sunar, Biassi Nyakwe
Midfielders: Ayush Ghalan, Suraj Jyu Thakuri, Bishal Tamang, Chandan Das, Saidodoston Jafarov
Forwards: Samir Tamang, Nawayug Shrestha, Stephen Samir Binong, Michael Chukwubunna
FC Chitwan:
Goalkeepers: Bishal Shrestha, Pradeep Bhandari, Amal Knight
Defenders: Abhishek Limbu, Sumit Shrestha, Tshiring Gurung, Bibek Gurung, Shishir Chaudhary, Bishal Syangtan, Jonathan Campbell
Midfielders: Roshan Rana Magar, Milan Rai, Shishir Lekhi, Jaya Gurung, Niraj Chaudhary, Nodirbek Mavlonov, Toric Jebrin
Forwards: Anjan Bista, Malik Yusuf, Victor Mansaray
Local Star: Rozal Dahal
Rookie: Ganesh Nepali
FC Chitwan vs Pokhara Thunders: Where to Watch
The match between FC Chitwan and Pokhara Thunders will be broadcast live on Himalayan TV and streamed on the Ncell digital platforms. Football fans can also catch live updates through NSL’s social media channels.
With both teams eager to prove themselves, this showdown promises to be an exciting battle. Will Chitwan’s new squad deliver, or will Pokhara’s young talents shine? Tune in at 6 PM NST to find out!
