POKHARA: Nepal Police Club will face Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC in the final of the Aaha Rara Gold Cup in Pokhara on Saturday, with the match set to begin at 2:30 pm.
Now in its 24th edition, the Aaha Rara Gold Cup is one of the most prestigious football tournaments in Nepal, and it is widely regarded as the country’s most significant football event outside the capital.
Originally launched as the Caravan Gold Cup in 2002, it has continued uninterrupted despite various challenges over the years, earning a special place in the hearts of football fans.
This year’s final, held at Pokhara Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 16,000, promises an exciting encounter, as both teams strive for victory.
Nepal Police Club, the tournament’s most successful team, is hoping to secure their seventh title.
Having previously won the Caravan Gold Cup in 2002, the club has claimed the Aaha Rara title six times (2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2018). A win on Saturday would further solidify their dominance in the competition.
Coach Chetan Ghimire expressed confidence in his team’s ability to make history once more.
“The Police team is historic, and tomorrow we need to create another chapter in that history. We are mentally prepared to win the title,” he stated during the pre-match press conference.
Captain Ram Waji spoke about the youthful energy of the squad, noting, “There are many young players in the Police team now. There aren’t any star players like before, but we’ll give our best on the field.”
Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls FC, making their first appearance in Nepal, has impressed with commanding performances.
The team has scored seven goals in two matches while keeping a clean sheet, demonstrating their technical and physical strength.
Coach Abdulajit acknowledged Nepal Police Club’s strength but maintained a confident outlook.
“Both teams have an equal 50-50 chance in the final. We are determined to win and return home as champions,” he said.
Nepal Police Club secured their place in the final with a 1-0 win over host Sahara Club Pokhara in the pre-quarterfinal, followed by a 2-0 victory against Brigade Boys Club UK in the quarterfinal and another 1-0 triumph over Church Boys United in the semifinal.
Black Bulls FC breezed into the final, defeating Thunderbolt North United of Sikkim, India 3-0 in the quarterfinal, and overpowering Three Star Club of Nepal 4-0 in the semifinal.
The tournament, organized by Sahara Club Pokhara, will award the champions with a cash prize of Rs 1.2 million, a shield, medals, and certificates.
The runner-up will receive Rs 600,000 along with a shield, medals, and certificates.
Additionally, the tournament’s best player will win a scooter, while the top scorer, best defender, goalkeeper, midfielder, striker, and coach will each be honored with a trophy and Rs. 25,000 in cash.
