Rupandehi XI stunned the two-time champions Manang Marshyangdi Club (MMC) 1-0 to enter the semi-finals of the Simara Gold Cup football tournament here on Tuesday.

An early ninth minute Buddha Chemjong goal turned out to be the decider in the last quarter-finals of the tournament. Birgunj, Tribhuvan Army Club and Bijay Youth Club of Hetauda have already secured their places in the semi-finals. Chemjong, who was adjudged man-of-the-match, capitalised on a pass from pass from Shiva Shrestha to score for Rupandehi.

Drawn directly in the quarter-finals, MMC’s fate was sealed after wasting numerous scoring chances in the game.  Rupandehi will take on Birjung and TAC will play Bijay Youth Club in the last four clash.

MMC coach Chhiring Lopsang Gurung was disappointed with his team’s performance. “We definitely were the better team but poor finishing cost us the match,” said the MMC coach. Rupandehi assistant coach Jaggunath Khadka was over the moon after defeating domestic giants MMC. “MMC were the better side but we outsmarted them with our strategy,” said Khadka.

The champions will earn Rs 5,51,000 and runners-up will take home Rs 2,50,000. The best player of the tournament will ride home a motorbike, while the best individuals-goalkeeper, midfielder, forward, defender and coach-will earn Rs 15,000 each. 

Army club will play Bijay Youth  in the first semi-finals on Wednesday.