With just three days remaining until the SAFF U-20 Championship kicks off in Kathmandu on August 2, the venue for the tournament remains undecided. The All Nepal Football Association (ANFA), the event's organizer, has yet to finalize the location for the matches.
In a press conference held on Thursday, ANFA spokesperson Suresh Shah addressed concerns about the venue, revealing that while preparations for the tournament are complete, the final decision on the match location hinges on the results of an inspection by the match commissioner later today.
The championship was initially scheduled to be held at Dashrath Stadium. However, recent concerns have arisen following a controversial AFC Challenge League playoff match between Church Boys United and Paro FC at the same venue. The match left the pitch in poor condition, prompting criticism and raising doubts about its suitability for the upcoming tournament.
Shah explained that if the condition of Dashrath Stadium is deemed inadequate after the inspection, the ANFA Complex in Satdobato has been identified as an alternative venue. "We are waiting for the match commissioner to assess the situation this evening. If Dashrath Stadium is deemed unfit, the ANFA Complex will serve as our backup option," Shah stated.
The SAFF U-20 Championship will feature six South Asian nations competing in two groups. Group A includes Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, while Group B comprises India, Bhutan, and the Maldives.
In preparation for the tournament, participating teams are currently utilizing practice grounds at Bhadrakali and Lagankhel.