Nepal vs Laos - Asian Cup - Qualification

The Asian Cup - Qualification returns to the home ground on March 31, 2026, where Nepal and Laos will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

Both Nepal and Laos will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Asian Cup - Qualification. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Dusan Vlahovic followed up his hat-trick on Monday by completing the comeback to leave Fenerbahce four points behind Galatasaray, who snatched a late winner at Basaksehir on Friday.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Nepal will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Laos must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Ben White has attracted interest from the likes of Everton, but injuries to Jurrien Timber and William Saliba could impact Arsenal's willingness to let the England defender go.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Asian Cup - Qualification standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. England captain Harry Kane is likely to sign a new deal to extend his stay at Bayern Munich despite interest from Barcelona.