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Kathmandu —Serious questions over possible match-fixing and match integrity have been raised by Nepali football analysts, content creators, and fans during the ongoing ANFA National League 2082, following controversial incidents from recent matches that have gone viral on social media.
The discussion intensified after the match between Chitlang Football Club and Machhindra Football Club, played on 28 January at the ANFA Complex, where Machhindra secured a 3–1 victory.
Goal scorers:
Pradeep Budathoki (Machhindra) – 30’
Jonathan Cantillana (Machhindra) – 66’
Alizhon Alizhonov (Machhindra) – 69’
Bigyan Khadka (Chitlang) – 71’
69th-Minute Goal Triggers Match-Fixing Debate
The 69th-minute goal that triggered match-fixing concerns among Nepali football fans and experts.
The main focus of the controversy is Machhindra’s third goal in the 69th minute, scored by Uzbek forward Alizhon Alizhonov from a header.
In the viral footage, Chitlang’s goalkeeper is seen sitting down and lifting only a slight hand, leaving the ball to pass without a strong attempt to stop it, despite appearing well-positioned. The moment has fueled speculation of possible fixing, with many viewers questioning the lack of effort in a professional-level match.
While some fans argue that headers can be difficult to react to, others believe the ball could have been comfortably cleared. A section of viewers also suggested hesitation due to fear of handball, but the incident has nonetheless raised serious integrity concerns.
Analysts, Commentators Question Integrity
@jonnishh Nepali football kaile Sudhrinna yaar. Integrity Team kata cha?🤣🤣 #football #jonnishh #CelebrateFootball #SportsOnTikTok ♬ original sound - jonnishh
“Nepali football will never improve like this. Where is the Integrity Team?”
Lama did not directly accuse any individual but highlighted the need for proper monitoring to prevent match-fixing risks.
Match commentator Aashish Dahal, who was on commentary duty during the game, reacted after reviewing the replay:
“At first, even I wasn’t sure. But after watching the replay, I was shocked. It looked like the keeper ducked.”
His statement further intensified the debate among football fans and experts.
Broader Match-Fixing Concerns in the League
He questioned:
Weak integrity scrutiny in a league largely hidden behind a paywall
Repeated late goals and basic defensive errors
Absence of visible integrity and background checks
He warned that while players can have bad days, repeated basic mistakes by experienced players may indicate deeper problems, stressing that Nepali football must not drift toward a betting-driven environment.
He also cited another match involving Satdobato Youth Club and NRT, where defensive actions raised similar suspicions among observers.
City Sports Network Findings
City Sports Network has received information that Chitlang’s regular first-choice goalkeeper was not fielded, with a second-choice goalkeeper starting the match. This information is currently being verified.
We have also received unverified claims from supporters alleging the presence of betting applications among football insiders. City Sports Network makes no accusations and has not verified these claims.
Call for Investigation Into Possible Fixing
City Sports Network is not accusing any player, club, or official of match-fixing. However, given the growing public concern, we formally urge ANFA and authorized integrity bodies to investigate the match footage and related data to rule out or confirm any fixing-related issues.
ANFA states on its official platform that individuals found guilty of match-fixing or betting activities may face:
Lifetime bans from football
Heavy fines
Imprisonment
ANFA Integrity Contacts:
Email: theanfa.integrity@gmail.com
Integrity Officer: +977 9851033142
All reports, according to ANFA, are treated as strictly confidential.
https://www.the-anfa.com/storage/downloads/book_1725349637.pdf
Conclusion
Nepali football cannot progress without integrity, transparency, and accountability. When credible questions of possible match-fixing emerge, a professional and independent investigation becomes essential to protect the game.
City Sports Network will continue to monitor the situation.
More to follow.