By Bootballer Desk • Football • Feb 26, 2025 14:22 PM • 371 views
Bhadrapur, Falgun 14 – Jhapa 11 Football Club has booked its place in the grand finale of the Bhadrapur Jhapa Gold Cup International Invitational Knockout Football Tournament after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Bhutan's Daga United FC in the semi-final at Mechi Stadium on Wednesday.
With this victory, Jhapa 11 sets up a mouthwatering final clash against hosts Bhadrapur Blazers on Friday, securing a minimum cash prize of Rs. 700,000.
Late Drama Seals the Win
The semi-final encounter remained deadlocked at 1-1 for 90 minutes, but Jhapa 11 capitalized on their home advantage to break away in injury time. The home side initially took the lead in the 55th minute with a stunning 25-yard free kick from Aaron Thapa. Bhutanese goalkeeper Rupak Koya misjudged the power of Thapa's strike, allowing the ball to find the back of the net. The free kick was awarded after Bhutan's Suraj Rasaili fouled Thapa in a dangerous position.
Daga United fought back in the 84th minute when Suraj Rasaili produced a moment of brilliance, dribbling past two defenders before slotting the ball home to level the score.
However, Jhapa 11 displayed immense composure in the game's dying minutes. Midfielder Alan Thapa's decisive strike in extra time was fumbled by Bhutanese keeper Rasaili, and Rohan Karki was quick to pounce, making it 2-1. Moments later, Hari Bahadur Ale Magar sealed the victory with a clinical finish, converting a well-timed cross from Samir Tamang to extend the lead to 3-1.
Missed Chances and Heroic Saves
Both sides had their share of opportunities throughout the match. Bhutan's Lakpa Pakhrin tested Jhapa goalkeeper Sandeep Limbu early in the second minute, while Tushar Bishwakarma forced another save in the 17th minute. Daga United came agonizingly close to taking the lead in the 14th minute when Hemraj Bhujel's thunderous strike rattled the crossbar.
Jhapa also had their own chances, with Babin Bohora's 68th-minute shot deflecting off the bar and Samir Tamang's cross being denied by goalkeeper Rasaili in the 83rd minute.
Thapa Named Player of the Match
Jhapa 11's standout performer, Aaron Thapa, was named Player of the Match for his stellar display. For his contributions, he was awarded Rs. 21,000 and a trophy.
Coaches' Reactions
At the post-match press conference, Jhapa 11's assistant coach, Santosh Gurung, praised his team's consistency, attributing their victory to solid preparations for the upcoming B Division League. "Defeating strong teams like Machhindra and Church Boys has significantly boosted our confidence," he stated.
Meanwhile, Bhutan coach Dorji Khandu acknowledged that his team fought intensely but lamented the crucial errors that led to their defeat. "A goalkeeper's mistake proved costly. Also, some of our key players were unavailable due to their participation in the Oli Cup," he explained.
