In an intense match at the 5th Mechinagar Gold Cup, Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC was eliminated from the first phase after losing 5-3 in a penalty shootout to Dharan Football Club. The game had ended in a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
During the shootout, Dharan’s captain Milan Rai, Suraj Rasaili, Prajwal Thapa, Ajay Bista, and Sugam Jimee scored, securing the win. For Black Bulls, Khusan Ganijanov, Azizbek Khursonboev, and Kuvenchbek Olimov managed to score, but Asiwek’s shot was saved by Dharan’s goalkeeper Bipul Magar.
The match saw a dramatic turnaround, with Black Bulls taking the lead in the 60th minute. Asiwek Arifjonov’s header from Islomzon’s cross put them ahead. However, Dharan made a comeback in the 84th minute, with Sugam Jimee scoring after Milan Rai set him up. Jimee capitalized on a mistake by Black Bulls’ defenders, equalizing the match.
The first half had its share of missed opportunities. In the 4th minute, Asiwek’s free-kick for Black Bulls went wide after Dharan’s Roman Limbu fouled Islomzon. Dharan’s Milan Rai also failed to score in the 33rd minute, and in the 43rd minute, Black Bulls’ Alijon’s header was saved by Dharan’s goalkeeper Pravin Limbu. In the 48th minute, Milan Rai’s free-kick was also off target after a foul by Black Bulls’ Zhakonggir on Dharan’s Moshim Subba. Dharan’s Suraj Rasaili had a chance in the 70th minute, but Black Bulls’ goalkeeper saved the shot. Dharan also missed another opportunity due to a lack of coordination between Tapan Karki and Suraj Rasaili.
Dharan’s coach Hem Gurung praised his players for their strong performance against a tough opponent. He credited their strategic play for the win, saying they were able to outplay Black Bulls by understanding their tactics.
On the other hand, Black Bulls’ coach Samipya Subedi explained that his players couldn’t perform at their best due to long travel and missing key players. He acknowledged that their absence contributed to the team’s defeat.
Dharan’s substitute goalkeeper Bipul Magar was named the Player of the Match and was awarded 11,000 Nepali Rupees for his outstanding performance.
The competition will continue until March 15, with the next match scheduled for March 11, 2025, between APF FC and Machhindra Football Club. The winning team of the tournament will receive a cash prize of 1 million rupees and a trophy, while the runner-up will get 500,000 rupees and a trophy. Additionally, the best player will earn 51,000 rupees, and the best coach and goalkeeper will each receive 21,000 rupees. The upcoming emerging player will receive 11,000 rupees.
Black Bulls FC: Aha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup Champions
It’s also worth noting that Black Bulls FC recently emerged as the winners of this season’s Aha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup, showcasing their outstanding performance and tactical strength throughout the competition. Their victory in this prestigious tournament further solidifies their reputation as one of the top teams in the region.
