NRT Secures Quarterfinal Spot with Dominant Opening Win Over Gaighat
GAIGHAT – New Road Team (NRT) kicked off the ANFA Women’s Championship in commanding fashion on Friday, dispatching the host side Gaighat 2–0 at the Gahura Stadium in Triyuga Municipality. The victory ensures NRT’s progression to the quarterfinals, while the local favourites face an early exit from the tournament. **Clinical Finishing Makes the Difference** In a high-stakes opening match, NRT relied on veteran composure and clinical execution. The deadlock was finally broken during first-half stoppage time when Captain Pratikshya Thakuri found the back of the net, silencing the home crowd and giving NRT a crucial psychological edge heading into the interval. Gaighat attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, but their efforts were thwarted by a disciplined NRT backline. The visitors put the game beyond reach in the 79th minute, as Sushila KC doubled the lead with a well-timed strike.  **The Road Ahead** With this win, NRT sets up a heavyweight quarterfinal clash against the formidable departmental side, Tribhuvan Army Club, scheduled for February 16 (Falgun 4). The championship, which features 10 competing teams, is set to run through February 21 (Falgun 9). **Tomorrow's Fixtures** The action continues tomorrow with a double-header that promises high intensity: **Nepal Police Club vs. FC Reale 12:00 PM Quarterfinal** **Chhahari Yuva Club vs. Church Boys United 3:00 PM Pre-Quarterfinal** As the departmental giants enter the fray tomorrow, all eyes will be on Nepal Police Club to see if they can match the standard set by NRT today.
