POKHARA: Nepal Police Club takes on Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC in the final of the Aaha Rara Gold Cup in Pokhara on Saturday. The match will kick off at 2:30 pm.
The prestigious tournament, considered Nepal’s most significant football event outside the capital, is in its 24th edition, having first started as the Caravan Gold Cup in 2002.
Despite facing various challenges over the years, the tournament has never been halted, earning it a special place among football fans. This year’s final at Pokhara Stadium, which can accommodate 16,000 spectators, promises an intense battle, with both teams determined to etch their names in history.
Nepal Police Club, the tournament’s most successful team, is eyeing its seventh championship. The club previously won the Caravan Gold Cup in 2002 and has since lifted the Aha Rara title six times (2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2018). A victory on Saturday would further cement their legacy in the competition.
Coach Chetan Ghimire expressed confidence in his team’s ability to create history once again.
“The Police team is historic, and tomorrow we have to make another history. We are mentally prepared to win the title,” he said during the pre-match press conference.
Captain Ram Waji highlighted the energy of the squad, saying, “There are many young players in the Police team now. There are no star players like before, but we will give our all on the field.”
Making their first appearance in Nepal, Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC has impressed with dominant performances. They have scored seven goals in two matches without conceding a single goal, showcasing both technical and physical superiority.
Coach Abdulajit acknowledged the strength of Nepal Police Club but remained confident.
“Both teams have a 50-50 chance in the final match. We will take to the field to win, and we want to return home as champions,” he said.
Nepal Police Club secured their spot in the final with a 1-0 victory over host Sahara Club Pokhara in the pre-quarterfinal, followed by a 2-0 win against Brigade Boys Club UK in the quarterfinal and another 1-0 victory over Church Boys United in the semifinal.
Black Bulls FC dominated their way to the final, defeating Thunderbolt North United of Sikkim, India 3-0 in the quarterfinal before overpowering Three Star Club of Nepal 4-0 in the semifinal.
The tournament, organized by Sahara Club Pokhara, offers a cash prize of Rs 1.2 million to the champions along with a shield, medals, and certificates. The runner-up will receive Rs 600,000 along with a shield, medals, and certificates.
Additionally, the best player of the tournament will be awarded a scooter, while the top scorer, best defender, goalkeeper, midfielder, striker, and coach will each receive a trophy and Rs. 25,000 in cash.
Comment