Dhangadhi, January 12

Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club advanced to the final of the first Bhageshwor Group Far-west Khaptad Gold Cup Football Tournament here at the Dhangadhi Stadium today.

The Kathmandu-based ‘A’ Division outfit came from a goal down to defeat Delhi United of India 3-1 in the first semi-final match riding on a brace from skipper Anil Gurung.

The Indian team went ahead in the match with an early goal but MMC hit back with three goals. Thopi opened the scoring in the second minute of the match to put Delhi United ahead but their joy short-lived as MMC skipper Gurung levelled the scores five minutes later. MMC took the lead in the 44th minute when Olawale Afiz found the back of the nets.

Gurung then sealed the victory with his second goal of the match in the 89th minute. Gurung was named the man-of-the-match and he received Rs 5,000.

MMC coach Chhiring Lopsang Gurung was satisfied with the victory. “We played well as expected but Delhi United goalkeeper Sanju Thapa foiled our strategy of scoring more goals,” said the coach. Skipper Anil Gurung said the players were motivated to give their best in the final as well. “We are confident of winning the Khaptad Gold Cup,” he said. Delhi United captain Don Lopcha said his team lost the match despite hard work from the players. “All the members of the team put in their best efforts but the results did not go our way,” Lopcha said.

MMC, who reached Dhangadhi after finishing runners-up to Tribhuvan Army Club in the second Hetauda Gold Cup, will now face the winners of Friday’s second semi-final match between CMG Club Sankata and hosts Far-west. The final is slated for Saturday. Top two teams will receive Rs 500,000 and Rs 251,000 respectively, while the best player of the tournament will get Yamaha motorcycle.