Nepal, July 4 -- Last week, Nepali football supporters received some unwelcome news. FIFA, the governing body of international football, suspended the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) following disputes involving government interference and election-related matters.

Understandably, there was deep concern and outrage across the Nepali football community. News outlets were filled with alarming headlines, social media exploded with criticism, and many observers concluded that Nepali football had hit rock bottom. Some even suggested it was already on its funeral pyre.

But Nepali football is very much alive and kicking. This may sound like a strange statement at a time when Nepal's men's league football has faced prolonged disruption, t...