Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Newly appointed head coach of the Nepali men’s national football team, Matt Ross, has said that his primary goal is to secure the SAFF Championship for Nepal.
Australian Matt Ross was appointed as the Head Coach of the Nepali men’s national football team on Sunday. He has signed an initial one-year contract with the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). The contract was officially signed by Ross and ANFA General Secretary Kiran Rai during a ceremony at the ANFA Complex in Satdobato on Sunday.
The position had been lying vacant since May 2024 when Vincenzo Alberto Annese completed his one-year term.
Ross is a UEFA Pro License holder and has previously gained coaching experience in countries such as South Korea, Saudi Arabia and China.
Speaking at an unveiling ceremony organized at the ANFA headquarters on Monday, Ross expressed his joy at being given the responsibility of leading the national team. He added that the enthusiastic participation of supporters during the recently concluded Four Nations International Women’s Championship made him realize the immense passion for football in Nepal. He emphasized the need for structural development starting from the school level for the growth of sports in Nepal.
Ross’s first challenge will be Nepal’s friendly against Singapore on March 21. Singapore will host Nepal for an international friendly match at the National Stadium in Singapore. The match will serve as Nepal’s preparations for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers clash against Malaysia on March 25.
