Birtamode United Beats APF Pakali 1-0 to Win Kakarbhitta Challenge Cup 2083
MECHINAGAR — A late first-half strike from Subas BK was enough to seal the silverware as Birtamode United Jhapa edged APF Pakali 1-0 in a hard-fought final to capture the inaugural Deepjyoti Kakarbhitta Challenge Cup 2083 on Saturday. Playing at the Kakarbhitta ground, Birtamode dictated much of the tempo early on, pressing forward repeatedly in search of an opening goal. Their dominance nearly paid off when attacker Khamir Gilshan unleashed a powerful strike that crashed off the woodwork, denying Birtamode an earlier lead. Despite controlling the attacking third and generating numerous opportunities, Birtamode lacked a clinical finish and ultimately had to settle for a solitary-goal victory. The breakthrough finally came just before the interval. Subas BK capitalised on a crucial defensive opening late in the first half, driving the ball into the net to give Birtamode a well-deserved lead. APF Pakali regrouped after the break and pushed aggressively for an equaliser, forcing Birtamode into a defensive stance. However, Birtamode’s backline anchored the match through a scoreless second half, turning away APF’s late surge to hold onto their slim 1-0 cushion until the final whistle.  With the victory, Birtamode United claimed the champion’s trophy along with NPR 1,01,100 in cash, medals, and certificates. Armed Police Force (APF) Pakali accepted the runners-up honours, taking home NPR 50,550. Match-winner Subas BK earned Player of the Match honours for his clutch goal. Birtamode swept the majority of the individual accolades: Ashish Chapagain captured the High Scorer award with four tournament goals, Abhishek Baral was named Best Goalkeeper, and Deewas Uraon claimed Best Defender. APF’s Shyam Murmu earned the prestigious Player of the Tournament title for his consistent performance throughout the campaign, while host team prodigy Raju Darji received the Emerging Player award. Each individual award winner received NPR 5,000 and a trophy. The honors were handed out by chief guest Provincial Assembly Member Gopal Tamang, alongside former Provincial Assembly Member Shree Prasad Mainali, Mechinagar Deputy Mayor Meena Pokhrel Upreti, Baljit Rai, Gangalal Gurung, and Deepjyoti Club President Anil Gupta. The tournament, which kicked off on Shrawan 9, brought together eight clubs—six local Nepalese teams and two invited sides from India.
