KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Cup qualifying match between Malaysia and Nepal in Kathmandu on Nov 18 could be moved to the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil due to political unrest.
Asian Football Confederation (AFC) general-secretary Datuk Seri Windsor Paul said the National Stadium could be the alternative venue.
“That’s the plan,” Windsor said when asked about the possibility of Nepal “borrowing” Malaysia’s home ground for the Nov 18 match.
He said Nepal’s Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu has not been approved by AFC.
The political crisis in Nepal has sparked riots in several key areas, including Kathmandu, raising safety concerns for the Malaysia squad.
FA of Malaysia chairman of local competitions committee Datuk Seri Rosmadi Ismail said: “We have to wait for AFC’s feedback or decision.”
The Malaysian Embassy in Kathmandu has advised Malaysians there to remain indoors after the Nepalese government extended a curfew in the capital. Tribhuvan International Airport was temporarily closed, while the army has imposed further restrictions as unrest continues. According to local reports, at least 20 people, mostly youths, have been killed and nearly 350 injured since Monday following protests sparked by a government ban on social media.
Back in March, Malaysia defeated Nepal 2-0 in their first Group F meeting at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium.
Harimau Malaya will conclude their group campaign against Vietnam on March 31 next year. They currently top the table with two wins — 2-0 over Nepal and 4-0 over Vietnam in March and June respectively.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
