By Bootballer Desk • Off-Field • Feb 06, 2025 13:47 PM • 361 views
BHADRAPUR, JHAPA: The highly anticipated match schedule for the second edition of the Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup 2081, dedicated to the memory of Gambhir Rai, has been officially released. The tournament, set to kick off on Falgun 7, promises thrilling football action as top clubs from Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh battle for glory at the Mechi Stadium in Bhadrapur.
The opening match on Falgun 7 will see the home team, Bhadrapur Blazers, take on Darjeeling Police Football Club from India in what is expected to be a fiery start. The following day, Falgun 8, will feature a clash between Machindra Football Club, the previous edition's runners-up, and Jhapa 11 FC, fresh off their victory in the Chief Minister's Cup in Sikkim.
The action continues on Falgun 9 as Nepal Police Club, the third-placed team in the A Division League, faces the winner of the opening match. Meanwhile, the league champions, Church Boys, will enter the fray on Falgun 10, squaring off against the winner of the second match.
On Falgun 11, Bangladesh's Kawaran Bazaar Pragati Sangh will face New Road Team (NRT), a formidable opponent despite their sixth-place finish in their domestic league. The group stage will conclude on Falgun 12 with a thrilling encounter between APF Football Club and Bhutan's Transport United FC. 
The final four stage begins on Falgun 13 with the first semi-final, followed by the second on Falgun 14. The grand finale, set for Falgun 16, will determine the Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup 2081 champion.
The Mechi Stadium, currently undergoing final touches to its 20,000-seat permanent parapet, is expected to be packed with passionate fans throughout the tournament. The stadium's upgrades reflect the growing stature of the event, which has quickly become a highlight of the regional football calendar.
This year's tournament has a total budget of Rs. 17.8 million, with the champions taking home Rs. 1.3 million, and the runners-up received Rs. 700,000. Individual accolades include Rs. 105,000 for the tournament's best player, while the best goalkeeper, top scorer, emerging player, and best coach will each be awarded Rs. 25,000. Additionally, the player of the match in every game will pocket Rs. 21,000.
Organized under the patronage of Bhadrapur Municipality and the Jhapa District Sports Development Committee, the Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup 2081 is set to deliver high-octane football and unforgettable moments for fans across the region.
