Six-time champions Manang secured their place in the last four by defeating Sikkim-based Thunderbolt North United of India 1-0 in a competitive quarterfinal match on Monday.
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Manang Marsyangdi Club, the most popular club in Pokhara, has entered the semi-finals of the 25th Aha-Rara Pokhara Gold Cup.
Six-time champions Manang secured their place in the last four by defeating Sikkim-based Thunderbolt North United of India 1-0 in a highly competitive quarterfinal match on Monday.
The match went into extra time after neither team managed to score in the stipulated 90 minutes. Despite both teams adopting defensive and offensive strategies, the match ended in a goalless draw in the stipulated time due to poor finishing.
Manang's Ashish Chhetri broke the scoring drought in the injury time of the first half of extra time. His goal proved decisive for Manang. Ashish, who was a de-boxer, headed the ball from a corner kick towards the post with a powerful header. With the help of his goal, Manang managed to secure a tough win.
Thunderbolt missed a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 97th minute of the match. Surag Chhetri's powerful shot hit the goalpost and bounced back. The Sikkimese team was shocked when Manang goalkeeper Bishal KC immediately cleared the rebound from near the goal line.
The decisive goal scorer of the match, Ashish Chhetri, was adjudged the 'Player of the Match'. He received a cash prize of Rs 10,000. With this win, Manang has become the third team to reach the semi-finals of the tournament. Now, Manang will face the host Sahara Club Pokhara to enter the final. Thunderbolt, who are participating for the second time, have been eliminated from the tournament after failing to score a goal despite performing well.
The final quarter-final match on Tuesday will be between Uzbekistan's Abha FC and Planning Boys United.
