Mechinagar—Manebhanjhyang is just a step away from securing the prestigious International Invitational 8th Rolling Challenge Cup title. The Darjeeling outfit made it to the final after a thrilling semifinal encounter against Ilam’s Redhorse FC on Thursday.

Manebhanjhyang won 4-3 in a nail-biting shootout after the match was tied at 1-1 in the stipulated time in the game held at Dhulabari MaBi’s ground. Both teams performed relentlessly, but Manebhanjhyang’s coolness made the difference.

Manebhanjhyang took an early lead through Piyush Shrestha’s poised strike in the 21st minute of the game. However, Redhorse equalized in the 28th minute via their foreign Player Ajay Martin, setting up a heated contest.

A tiebreaker decided the outcome after neither side could break the deadlock in 90 minutes. Balkumar Rai, Robert, Piyush Shrestha and Shyam Murmu found the back of the net to secure their team’s spot in the final. Redhorse goalkeeper Bibek Magar put up a heroic fight, thwarting Roman Bhujel’s attempt, but ultimately could not stop Manebhanjhyang’s advance. For Redhorse, Ayush Timsina, Bibek Magar, and Santosh Karki converted their penalties, but missed shots from Sange Sherpa and Bibek Sunam dashed their hopes of reaching the final.

Piyush Thakuri of Manebhanjhyang was named Player of the Match for his stellar performance and was awarded Rs 5,000 and a trophy. The award was presented by notable figures, including Mahendra Limbu, former central member of ANFA; Ramkumar Rai, president of Mechinagar Ward 1; sports enthusiast Sanjay Sharma; and Rolling Club president November Bikram Nembang. National player Navyug Shrestha was also honoured during the ceremony.

Manebhanjhyang will face the host team, Rolling Club, in the final on Saturday. Both teams will compete for the top prize of Rs 3 lakh. The runner-up will receive Rs 1.5 lakh, with Rs 5,000 going to the Player of the Match and a special Rs 15,000 prize for standout performances. The stage is set for an electrifying finale as Manebhanjhyang aims to lift the cup for the first time in this prestigious tournament and make history.