Nepal, June 20 -- In the span of a few days, the Nepal national team faced two very different footballing challenges. Against Hong Kong, we played a side with the experience, structure, and speed to exploit any lapse in concentration. Against Laos, we encountered a tenacious opponent, more evenly matched in physicality, but still tactically mature.

Hong Kong expected to beat Nepal, while Nepal expected to beat Laos. These dangerous expectations are based on old stereotypes, a lack of research and a misunderstanding of human psychology. As underdogs, Nepal can fight, be aggressive, and do the unexpected.

Meanwhile, as we improve tactically, can we meet the psychological challenge of playing expansive football-and winning-when it's expect...