Satdobato, Nepal: The KP Oli Cup National Football Tournament roared to life on Friday with a bang, as host team KP Oli FC sent shockwaves through the competition with a dominant 3-0 victory over reigning league champions Church Boys United. The electric atmosphere at the Anfa Complex pulsated with excitement as KP Oli FC etched their name in the quarter-finals, leaving the stunned champions to lick their wounds.

Jay, a name soon to be etched in tournament lore, stole the show with a dazzling brace. His first, a composed finish in the 68th minute, capitalized on Fofana’s pinpoint cross, doubling KP Oli’s lead established by Fofana’s earlier strike in the 58th minute. Jay saved the best for last, soaring above the defence in the 80th minute to nod home a Chandan Das corner, sealing the deal and sending the home crowd into raptures.

While the victors celebrated, Church Boys United were left lamenting missed opportunities and a costly defensive lapse. Their journey in the tournament ends abruptly, but the remaining teams are served a stark warning – KP Oli FC are a force to be reckoned with.

The stage is now for an enthralling quarter-final clash between KP Oli FC and Jawalakhel Youth Club. But before that, Sunday promises another doubleheader packed with potential. New Road Team (NRT) will face a stern test against a yet-to-be-announced opponent, while the departmental giants, Tribhuvan Army Club and Nepal Police Club, clash in a battle for supremacy.