By Bootballer Desk • Football • Feb 06, 2025 14:22 PM • 245 views
Pokhara: In a nail-biting encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats, Church Boys United secured their spot in the quarterfinals of the Aaha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup, thanks to a heroic performance by goalkeeper Tikendra Singh Thapa. The match at Pokhara Stadium on Thursday saw Church Boys triumph over New Road Team (NRT) in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 6-5 after a 1-1 deadlock in regular and extra time.
Tikendra emerged as the undisputed hero of the night. He made three crucial saves during the penalty shootout and scored one himself. His composure under pressure and decisive interventions were instrumental in sealing the victory for Church Boys.
The shootout saw Naveen Lama, Milan Rai, Akins Bafour, Abayomi Fakunle, Tikendra Singh Thapa, and Prashant Lakchham convert their spot-kicks for Church Boys. NRT goalkeeper Bishal Sunar did his part by saving attempts from Serge Diga and Raj Bhusal, while Sakal Regmi's shot was cleared. For NRT, Anjan Bista, Sumeet Shrestha, Bishal Sunar, and Rajiv Lopchan found the net, but Tikendra's brilliance denied Janmajya Dhami, Richard Wilson, and Michael Magar, with Angel Maharjan's shot missing the target. 
Earlier in the match, NRT had taken the lead in the 24th minute through a well-taken goal by Richard Wilson. Church Boys fought back and levelled the score in the 63rd minute when Naveen Lama calmly converted a penalty. Despite both teams creating chances, neither could break the deadlock in extra time, setting the stage for the thrilling shootout.
With this hard-fought victory, Church Boys United now advance to the semi-finals, where they will face the defending champions, Tribhuvan Army Football Club. The upcoming clash promises to be a high-stakes battle as Church Boys aim to continue their quest for the Pokhara Gold Cup title.
