By Bootballer Desk • Football • Feb 21, 2025 13:20 PM • 89 views
Bhadrapur, Falgun 9 – Host team Bhadrapur Blazers have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the Saurya Air Om Sai Pathibhara Hospital Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup, Gambhir Rai Memorial Edition after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nepal Police Club at Mechi Stadium on Friday.
The Blazers, who went into halftime locked in a goalless stalemate, came alive in the second half with two decisive goals. Milan Rai emerged as the hero, breaking the deadlock in the 72nd minute with a clinical finish off an Ashish Chapagain pass near the penalty area. Just two minutes later, Bhadrapur doubled their advantage when Rai confidently converted from the penalty spot after Chapagain was fouled inside the box by Police's Man Bahadur Pariyar.
Nepal Police, however, refused to give up without a fight. In injury time, Prashant Kunwar capitalized on a goalkeeping error by Jiyarath Sheikh to pull one back, but it was too late, as the Blazers held on for a crucial victory.
The match saw plenty of goal-scoring opportunities. In the 40th minute, Rai's effort from inside the box rattled the crossbar. Just before halftime, Police's Amit Tamata was called into action, denying another Rai strike on the goal line. Foreign recruit Fode Fofona also came close for Bhadrapur in extra time, only to be denied by a sharp save from Tamata. On the other end, Police's Anup Limbu had a golden chance in the 54th minute, but his header from a Krishna Gurung cross was punched away by Sheikh.
Milan Rai was named Player of the Match for his match-winning brace and received a cash prize of Rs 21,000 and a trophy.
In the post-match press conference, Bhadrapur assistant coach Arjun Rai credited the team's tactical adjustments in the second half for their victory, highlighting the impact of home support. Meanwhile, Nepal Police coach Suman Subedi lamented defensive lapses, acknowledging that while his team played well, costly mistakes led to their downfall.
The tournament continues on Saturday with the second quarter-final clash between Jhapa 11 FC and Church Boys United. Jhapa 11 progressed to this stage after defeating Machhindra FC in the previous round.
