Pokhara, January 26

Jhapa-XI thrashed Gazirchat Sporting Club from Bangladesh 4-1 and advanced to the semi-finals of the 14th Aaha-Rara Gold Cup Football Tournament here at the Pokhara Stadium today.

A brace from Karna Limbu and a goal each from Ganesh Khadka and Nagendra Limbu guided Jhapa to easy victory. Manik scored the consolation goal for the Bangladeshi side.

Karna Limbu opened the scoring for Jhapa in the eighth minute through a header following a cross from Khadka.

The provider doubled the lead eight minutes later when Khadka scored the team’s second goal.

In the 30th minute, Nagendra Limbu scored utilised a pass from Khadka to go into the break with a comfortable 3-0 lead. Munik reduced the margin with a goal in the 48th minute when he headed home following a cross from Animul, before Karna Limbu scored his second and Jhapa’s fourth goal in the 74th minute.

Jhapa-XI coach Bhagirath Ale ‘Mama’ was happy with the easy victory. “We had expected a tough team from Bangladesh but they turned out to be an easy opponents for us,” he said.

Regarding the semi-final battle against Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club, Ale said the team put up a strong show. “We will give our best against MMC,” he added.

On Wednesday, hosts Sahara Club will play against Tribhuvan Army Club in the first semi-final match.