xTribhuvan Army Club clinched the Khaptad Gold Cup football tournament title defeating departmental rivals Nepal Armed Police Force (APF) Club 5-4 on penalties in Dhangadi on Monday.

The title clash was decided through spot kick after the regulation time ended in a 0-0 deadlock. The missed penalty from Sudip Shikhrakar, the second penalty taker for APF, separated them from the Army, who converted all five spot kicks. Nawayug Shrestha, Santosh Tamang, Deep Lama, Dipak Gurung and Bivek Basnet scored from spots for Army. Anjan Bista, Nabin Lama, Pasang Lama and Ranjan Bista converted for APF.

Army received Rs 111,1111 for their fourth title of the season. The Army team had earlier won Satashi Gold Cup and Kakadbhitta Gold Cup in Jhapa, and Bishal Memorial Gold Cup in Birgunj. Runners up APF walked away with Rs 555,555. APF, who came into final less than 24-hour after beating hosts Farwest XI 2-0 on Sunday, could only come up with one notable move throughout the match when Roop Bahadur Lama was denied by diving Army goalie Bikesh Kutu before interval.

APF coach Ratna Kaji Maharjan said his side paid for playing two games in as many days. They only entered final after defeating Farwest 2-0 on Sunday. Army played their semi-finals a day early on Saturday, beating Manang Marshyangdi Club 4-1. “We could not get recovery time,” said Maharjan. “It is also really difficult to create chances in tough matches like these.”   

Army striker George Prince Karki was denied by APF custodian Amrit Chaudhary in the 31st and 37th minute. Star striker Nawayug Shrestha failed to convert as many as three scoring chances after the break. Army coach Nabin Neupane lamented that his side failed to play to their potential.

“We adopted offensive approach but could not fare well. To make the matter worse, we were unable to utilise chances that came our way,” said Neupane. “Considering that they were playing two games in two days, credits to them for their excellent performance,” added the former national team player. 

Army captain Bharat Khawas, also the national team forward, was declared best player of the tournament and won a two-wheeler. His teammates Nawayug Shrestha won man-of-the-final award, Bikesh Kuthu the best goalkeeper honour and Santosh Tamang the best midfielder accolade.

Amanat Sheikh of Farwest won the rising player award and Top Bista of APF the best defender honour. Ranjan Bista of APF finished as the highest scorer with four goals.

Organisers Farwest XI Sports Club announced that they will raise prize money by Rs 1.5 million in the next edition meaning the champions next season will grab Rs 2.1 million and the runners up will take home Rs 1.05 million.