Jhapa XI FC has secured a spot in the semifinals of the Bhadrapur Gold Cup after a 2-1 victory over Church Boys United. Aaron Thapa Magar and captain Pema Tamang were the goal scorers for Jhapa XI, while Bikram Dhimal netted the only goal for Church Boys.
The match started with an early goal from Jhapa XI. In the 14th minute, Aaron Thapa Magar took advantage of Church Boys’ goalkeeper Krisal Moktan being out of position and found the back of the net, giving his team the lead. However, Church Boys responded before halftime, with Bikram Dhimal scoring in the 41st minute to make it 1-1.
In the second half, both teams pushed for a winner. Jhapa XI eventually got the decisive goal in the 79th minute. Captain Pema Tamang capitalized on a rebound from Church Boys’ goalkeeper and scored to secure the win. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award, along with a cash prize of Rs 21,000.
Church Boys United was missing three key players for this match. Rohan Karki, Ananta Tamang, and Samir Tamang were unavailable as they attended the NSL mini-auction on February 22, where they were announced as marquee players for three different teams.
Jhapa XI FC is currently preparing for the upcoming B Division League and has been relying on local and emerging talents. Despite this, they have performed impressively in the Bhadrapur Gold Cup, defeating two former A Division champions, Machhindra FC and Church Boys United.
Meanwhile, the tournament continues with the third quarterfinal match set for Sunday. Kathmandu’s New Road Team will face Bangladesh’s Kauroon Bazar Pragati Sangh.
The winners of the Gold Cup will receive Rs 1.3 million, while the runner-up will get Rs 700,000 along with a trophy. The tournament’s best player will be awarded Rs 1 lakh, and Rs 25,000 will be given to the best goalkeeper, top scorer, emerging player, and best coach. Additionally, the Player of the Match for each game receives Rs 21,000.
