By Bootballer Desk • Football • Feb 25, 2025 14:29 PM • 379 views
Bhadrapur, Falgun 13—The hosts, the Bhadrapur Blazers, have stormed into the final of the Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup International Invitational Knockout Football Tournament, securing a minimum cash prize of NPR 700,000.
In a thrilling first semi-final at Mechi Stadium, Bhadrapur Blazers edged past Kawaran Bazaar Pragati Sangh, Bangladesh, in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. After the regulation time ended in a 1-1 stalemate, the hosts triumphed 4-3 in the tiebreaker to keep their championship hopes alive.
Dramatic Penalty Shootout Decides Semi-Final
Bhadrapur's Satyam Sharma, Diwash Urau, and foreign recruits Armaan Bidong and Abayomi converted their spot-kicks, while Kuldeep Karki struck the post. On the other hand, Bangladesh's Saiddiston, S. Sillah, and Shahid found the net, but Yusuf MB's shot rattled the crossbar, and Ibrahim's effort struck the goalpost, handing the advantage to the home team.
Blazers Strike First, Bangladesh Responds
Backed by a passionate home crowd, Bhadrapur drew first blood in the 29th minute when Abayomi's strike from the penalty area rebounded off the defence, allowing Satyam Sharma to smash the ball into the net.
Trailing 1-0 at halftime, the Bangladeshi side found their equalizer in the 62nd minute. Shakil capitalized on a long throw-in from Kazi Rahad, rising above the defence to nod home the equalizer.
Missed Chances and Near Misses
Bhadrapur had multiple chances to put the game to bed in regulation time. In the 21st minute, captain Ashish Chapagain's thunderous strike hit the crossbar, and Abayomi fired the rebound wide. Milan Rai also missed a golden opportunity in the 71st minute, while Abayomi's cross in the 83rd minute clattered against the woodwork.
Bangladesh also had their share of missed opportunities, with Sidestone squandering a prime chance in the 34th minute following a precise cross from Shahid.
Goalkeeper Thapa Shines, Named Player of the Match
Bhadrapur's shot-stopper Tekendra Thapa was the night's hero. He made crucial saves and earned the 'Player of the Match' award. For his outstanding performance between the sticks, he received NPR 21,000 in cash and a trophy.
Coaches Reflect on Hard-Fought Battle
Speaking in the post-match press conference, Bhadrapur coach Sachindra Dhimal acknowledged the intensity of the contest, admitting that his side faced a tough challenge despite leading early. He hinted at tactical tweaks but confirmed that the same squad would take the field in the final.
Bangladesh coach Soel Rahman praised both teams' performances but lamented the missed opportunities in the tiebreaker, which ultimately cost them a spot in the final.
Next Semi-Final Showdown and Grand Finale
Jhapa 11 FC will face Daga United Bhutan on Wednesday in the second semi-final of the Saurya Air Om Sai Pathibhara Hospital Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup, Gambhir Rai Memorial Edition of the tournament.
The winner of the prestigious Gold Cup will pocket NPR 1.3 million, along with an attractive trophy and medals, while the runners-up will receive NPR 700,000, as announced by Chairman Dipesh Dhakal.
