In the ongoing Nepal Super League (NSL) 2025, many teams opted for foreign goalkeepers, but the decision hasn’t been as beneficial as expected. Despite initial predictions, Nepali goalkeepers have stepped up and shown their value, leaving teams to reconsider their approach to goalkeeper signings.
National Team Captain’s Absence
Before the season, national team captain Kiran Chemjong’s absence from any team raised some eyebrows in the football community. Kiran, who was seeking to play in foreign leagues, was not signed by any NSL team. His absence led to questions about the value of local goalkeepers, but players like Deep Karki, Bikesh Kuthu, and Bishal Sunar’s exclusion from top picks hinted that foreign goalkeepers were still favored.
NSL 2025: Surprising Foreign Signings
However, teams like FC Chitwan surprised everyone by signing a foreign goalkeeper despite retaining their local captain Bishal Shrestha. Similarly, Dhangadhi FC also followed this trend and signed a foreign keeper. Interestingly, Butwal Lumbini was the only team that trusted their local goalkeeper, Deep Karki, and it paid off as he played a pivotal role in securing a 0-0 draw in their first game, earning Player of the Match honors.
Kathmandu Rely on Local Talent
Kathmandu Rayzrs also went with a local option in goalkeeper Abhishek Baral, who earned Player of the Match for his solid performance against Jhapa FC. Despite having Senegalese foreign goalkeeper Cheikh Gueye, Kathmandu chose to rely on Baral in the first two matches, highlighting the importance of Nepali talent. Pokhara also made the decision to replace their foreign goalkeeper, Priso, with Nepali keeper Krishal Moktan after conceding three goals in the match against Lalitpur City.
Challenges and Success of Nepali Goalkeepers
Other teams, like Jhapa, also saw their local goalkeepers perform well under pressure. After a late injury to their foreign keeper, Nemanja, Jhapa turned to Angel Shrestha, showcasing the value of local players. The first six games of the season have seen four foreign players and two Nepali players awarded Player of the Match, with all Nepali winners being goalkeepers.
Moving Forward: A Shift in Strategy
As NSL 2025 progresses, teams may rethink their reliance on foreign goalkeepers. Nepali keepers have proven they can deliver top-notch performances, challenging the idea that foreign players are always the better option. With the success of local goalkeepers, more teams may consider this shift when making future signings.
