Kathmandu – Elite News has honored Roshan Raj Pant, the first Nepali referee recognized by the Malta Football Association (MFA). Pant has made history by officiating in Malta’s domestic football leagues, representing the Nepali community on an international stage.
To date, Pant has officiated over 200 domestic football matches in Malta, a remarkable achievement and a source of pride for Nepalese football fans.
During the event, Pant shared his insights on the structural differences between Nepalese and European football. He emphasized that while Nepal continues to produce talented players, they are not products of the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA). “Most players in Nepal’s national team come from schools, school coaches, and local futsal clubs rather than ANFA’s structured development programs,” he noted.
Comparing Nepal’s system with that of Malta and other European Union nations, Pant explained, “In Europe, all players come through structured academies. In Nepal, football development relies heavily on schools and colleges. The lack of well-established football academies in Nepal means that, at present, Nepalese football is far behind.”
Calling for improvements in Nepal’s football infrastructure, he added, “ANFA must organize all divisions according to a structured calendar, just like in other countries. If leagues were systematically conducted, players wouldn’t have to go abroad to pursue their careers. Perhaps I, too, could have built my career in Nepal.”
In recognition of his achievements, Elite News Chairman Arun Timalsina, Elite Futsal Chairman Shyam Kumar Shrestha, and Managing Director Rabin Shakya presented Pant with a certificate of appreciation at a special event held at Elite Futsal. The program was attended by football enthusiasts, coaches, and individuals associated with Nepalese football.
Pant’s success is expected to inspire aspiring referees and footballers in Nepal.
