APF FC secured a hard-fought victory against Nepal Police Club to book their spot in the final of the Second Current International Invitational Women’s Gold Cup, currently taking place in Ilam. Rashmi Kumari Ghising scored the decisive goal, leading APF to a narrow 1-0 win. The match was competitive, with APF having to wait until the 34th minute of the first half to find the breakthrough. Anita K.C. delivered a cross from the right side, which Police goalkeeper Usha Nath attempted to save but fumbled. Ghising quickly capitalized on the loose ball and scored.
With this victory, APF FC has set up a final clash against their familiar rivals, Tribhuvan Army FC. APF captain Anita Basnet was named Player of the Match. She received a cash prize of NPR 5,000 and a trophy, presented by Ilam Municipality Chief Kedar Thapa and Club Oasis Ilam President Dhruva Rai. APF welcomed back Preeti Rai and Gita Rana, who missed the first match. Gita was strong in defense, while Preeti impressed as usual.
Before the match, the organizers celebrated the birthday of Nepal international Saru Limbu, who was playing for APF. A cake-cutting ceremony took place, and both teams participated in the celebration. After the match, fans rushed onto the field to meet the national players, especially Preeti Rai, who expressed her gratitude, saying, “I never imagined that Ilam would love me this way.”
The final match will take place on Fagun 24. The winner will receive NPR 4 lakh and a prestigious trophy, while the runner-up will settle for NPR 2 lakh. The excitement around the tournament has been incredible, with ticket sales for the match between APF FC and Nepal Police Club alone reaching NPR 6,42,000. The enthusiasm from fans proves how much they appreciate seeing Nepal’s top women footballers compete in Ilam.
APF FC boasts a squad filled with national team players, while Tribhuvan Army FC features several talented players, including their star goalkeeper Anjana Rana Magar, who is adored by fans across Nepal. The final is expected to be a thrilling encounter between two of Nepal’s strongest women’s football teams. Football lovers are eagerly awaiting the showdown!
Read about Nepal’s local tournament here.
