POKHARA: The 23rd Aaha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup is set to host 12 participating teams during its upcoming edition.

Sahara Club Pokhara, the organizing body, announced this decision during a press conference held today in Pokhara.

Scheduled to take place at Pokhara Stadium from January 23 to February 3, the competition will witness the inclusion of Delhi FC, currently holding the seventh position in the Indian domestic football league I-League, and Bhutan’s league champion club Paro Bhutan FC for the 2023-2024 season.

Marking their inaugural appearance in Nepal, both Delhi FC and Bhutan FC are anticipated to bring added excitement to the Aaha Rara Pokhara Gold Cup.

Furthermore, alongside the host Sahara Club, prominent ‘A’ Division clubs from Nepal, including Sankata Youth Club, Church Boys Club, Machhindra FC, Manang Marsyangdi Club, Jawalakhel Youth Club, and Three Star, are set to participate in the match.

The lineup extends to include departmental powerhouses Nepal Army Club and Nepal Police Club, with Sunwal’s Rising Star Club marking its debut in the competition.