Pokhara, Nepal: A giant-killing upset sent shockwaves through the Pokhara Gold Cup on Wednesday as Jawalakhel Youth Club ousted tournament heavyweights Machhindra Club 1-0 to book their place in the quarter-finals.

The victory was a triumphant homecoming for Jawalakhel, returning to Aaha Rara after a decade’s absence. Their fairytale run was orchestrated by Hisub Thapalia, who pounced on a crucial error by Machhindra captain Bishal Shrestha in the 38th minute to slot home the game’s only goal.

Shrestha, a recent retiree from the national team, was entrusted with the captain’s armband for Machhindra, but his leadership faltered at a critical moment. 

Jawalakhel, playing with the grit and determination of underdogs, weathered the Machhindra storm in the second half. The tournament favourites piled on the pressure, but their attacking efforts needed precision. A golden chance went begging in the 48th minute when Bimal Gharti Magar’s free-kick rattled the crossbar and rebounded harmlessly away.

This edition of the Pokhara Gold Cup marked the first-ever clash between these two teams, despite both boasting rich histories in the tournament. Machhindra, in their sixth appearance, were aiming to shed the ghosts of their pre-quarterfinal exit to Church Boys last year. Jawalakhel, on the other hand, sought to rekindle the magic that saw them reach the final in their debut appearance in 2068.

That dream run ended in heartbreak, with Manangmarsyangdi Club denying them the trophy. Jawalakhel reached the semi-finals the following year but was edged out by Three Star. Their recent past in the tournament has been less kind, with a first-round exit in 2072 and a pre-quarterfinal defeat to Sankata Club last year.

But this edition was a different story. Jawalakhel defied the odds, silenced their doubters, and wrote a new chapter in their Pokhara Gold Cup saga. The Jawalakhel outfit now stands proudly amongst the last eight, ready to take on whoever fate throws their way.

The Pokhara Gold Cup drama continues tomorrow with the fourth pre-quarterfinal clash between departmental giants APF and Church Boys.