Army produced a hard-fought 1-0 win over Kathmandu-based A division outfit Sarsawati Club with the lone goal from Bikash Tamang. Bikash scored the match winner in the 21st minute as he converted Sanjib Moktan's corner kick.
Army had dominated the game, but failed to add other goals as Bharat Khawas missed a number of chances.
Bharat failed to score in the first half after his powerful shot was denied by Saraswati goalkeeper Krishna Chaudhary in a one-on-one situation and his shot from nearly six yards in the 66th minute directly went to Krishna's gloves.
Similarly, Bharat's another powerful shot from the penalty area rebounded after hitting the top bar in the 86th minute.
Saraswati did not create any noticeable goal-scoring opportunity throughout the match.
Army coach Meghraj KC informed that team's regular seven players are not in the squad.
Army will face Regal Hetauda FC in the semifinal on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Laxmi Hyundai Manang Marshyangdi Club will play against Siliguri Kanchanjungha of India on Monday for a place in the semifinal.
The winner and runner-up of the tournament will bag Rs 300,000 and Rs 150,000 respectively.
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