Machhindra Maul APF to Seize Historic Jhapa Gold Cup!
DOMALAL RAJBANSI STADIUM — In a clinical display of tactical prowess, Machhindra Football Club (MFC) captured the 7th Jhapa Gold Cup (Binod Basnet Memorial Edition) on Monday, defeating APF Football Club 3-1 in a high-stakes final. This victory marks a historic milestone for the Kathmandu-based giants, as they hoisted the prestigious trophy for the first time. The win was particularly poetic for the squad, which featured a core roster of local Jhapa-based talent playing on home soil. **Financial Stakes and Individual Brilliance** The triumph secured Machhindra a hefty purse of Rs. 1.5 million, while runners-up APF took home Rs. 750,000. Currently, the highest-paying tournament in Nepal this year, the Gold Cup, also served as a stage for individual masterclasses: **Player of the Match**: Pradip Budhathoki (MFC) - Rs. 25,000 **Most Valuable Player**: Pema Tamang (MFC) - Awarded a Yamaha motorcycle. **Best Goalkeeper**: Bishal Shrestha (MFC) **Best Coach**: Prabesh Katuwal (MFC) **Highest Scorer**: Jonathan Zorilla (MFC) Even the fans walked away winners; local resident Priti Moktan won a Yamaha scooter through a lucky draw held for ticket-holding spectators.  **Tactical Dominance** The contest ignited in the 31st minute when Pradip Budhathoki capitalised on a precision pass from Ayoola Hamzat, firing a clinical shot into the left corner of the net to give Machhindra the lead. MFC maintained a suffocating high press throughout the first half. Just before the interval, in the 45th minute, Frank Anoh doubled the lead, expertly converting a long delivery from Devendra Tamang. APF showed signs of a resurgence in the second half, eventually breaking through in the 82nd minute. Following a chaotic scramble from a Bishwas Udas free kick, Dipesh Dhimal found the back of the net to make it 2-1. However, any hopes of a comeback were short-lived. In the 83rd minute, Machhindra’s Alisson Alijonov sealed the result with a header off an Ayoola Hamzat corner. APF’s uphill battle was made steeper in the 76th minute when defender Man Bahadur Rana Magar was dismissed following a second yellow card, leaving them to finish the match with ten men. **A Celebration of the Sport** Beyond the final whistle, the tournament honoured the legacy of Nepali football by recognising former national team member Narottam Gautam with a special commendation and a cash prize of Rs. 25,000. The 7th edition of the Gold Cup boasted an international flavour, featuring ten teams including Nepal’s top departmental sides, organisers Jhapa-11, and guest clubs from India (Singling Sporting), Bhutan (RTC Bhutan), and Malaysia (N. Penang FC). The trophies and checks were presented by a distinguished panel including ANFA President Pankaj Bikram Nembang, Birtamod Mayor Pabitra Mahatara Prasai, and tournament chairman Kedar Giri.
