With eyes all set on the second round, Nepal take on minnows Pakistan on Sunday in their crucial Group ‘B’ match of the AFC U-19 Women’s Championship qualifier at the Chonburi Stadium in Thailand. Nepal had gone down 3-0 against Thailand in the tournament opener of four team group. They then beat India 2-0 to get back in contention for second round but defeating Pakistan — who were crushed with identical margins of 18-0 by Thailand and India — might not suffice.

After playing equal two matches, India and Nepal and tied on three points, while Thailand stand on top with six. The winners from all six groups and two best second-placed teams will progress to Round 2 of the Qualifier. Thailand also hosts the tournament proper and so are assured of a place in the Finals irrespective of their results in the Qualifiers. If Thailand top their Group, the runners-up of their group advance to the second round. But if they finish among the two best runners-up, the third best runner-up advances to the second round. Top four teams from the second Qualifier will join Japan, North Korea and China for the Finals along with Thailand.

If Nepal beat Pakistan on Sunday and Thailand and India play draw, it will be sufficient for Nepal to book place in the semi-final. But if India beat Thailand in the group’s last match on same day, the outcome will be decided by goal difference between the three teams tied on six points – Nepal, Thailand and India. If India go down to Thailand or play a draw, than even a draw against Pakistan will be enough for Nepal. (PR)