In a dramatic turn, the highly-anticipated match between New Road Team (NRT) and Church Boys United (CBU) at the Arna 6th Jhapa Gold Cup saw the five-time league champions, NRT, suffer a shocking 1-0 defeat. The match was a nail-biter, with both teams displaying exceptional skills. However, the defining moment came in the 36th minute when CBU’s Aboyomi Fakunle, assisted by Sanjit Rai (Lahure), scored the match’s only goal, sealing NRT’s fate.

CBU, the reigning league champions, proved their dominance by securing a hard-fought victory. 

Despite a valiant effort, NRT’s campaign was marred by missed opportunities. Key players like Olawale Afiz and Saroj Tamang, who are usually reliable in front of the goal, should have capitalized on crucial chances. Afiz, known for his agility and precision, struggled to find his rhythm, while Tamang’s usually powerful shots lacked their usual accuracy, leaving their fans crestfallen.

This unexpected defeat by the league champions highlights the unpredictable nature of the beautiful game. Sanjit Rai (Lahure) of CBU was rightly awarded the Player of the Match title for his exceptional performance.

The tournament’s excitement continues as Tribhuvan Army FC, a four-time champion of the Jhapa Gold Cup, prepares to face Machhindra Football Club for the first time.

Both coaches expressed their disappointment. CBU’s Ruben Rai attributed the team’s performance to the absence of key players involved in national team training. NRT’s Jeevan Singhkeman emphasized the lack of finishing prowess and the disruption caused by missing players as critical factors in their defeat.

With ten strong teams, including Jhapa 11 FC, still in contention, the 6th Arna Jhapa Gold Cup promises more thrilling encounters as it progresses towards the grand finale on Falgun 28th. The winning team will take home a prestigious trophy and a hefty cash prize of Rs. 13 lakh, while the runners-up will receive Rs. 7 lakh.