KATHMANDU, March 24: The host Madan Bhandari Sports Academy has advanced into the quarterfinals of the ongoing Madan Bhandari International Gold Cup Football Tournament defeating Far-western XI 5-1 on Friday. 

At the Manav Gyan School’s ground in Ramnagar, Far-western held Madan Bhandari to a 1-1 draw, but conceded four goals in the second half and got knocked out from the first match. 

Madan Bhandari took the lead through Prakash Budathoki, who utilized a pass from Aaba in the 18th minute, but Far-western’s Purna Anjan Dhwoju scored in the 44th minute to equalize the match. Madan Bhandari was in the possession for most of the second half and that showed with goals. 

Budhathoki bagged his brace in the 64th minute when he dribbled past all the defenders including the goalkeeper to score his side’s second goal, while Aaba made it 3-1 in the 71st minute. The score was 4-1 after six minutes when Bishwa Adhikari’s free kick kissed the back of the net. Dipesh Ale finished the match with one minute remaining on the clock as his long ranger went into the net. 

Budhathoki was named the man-of-the-match and was given Rs 10,000 for his contribution. 

The departmental team Armed Police Force (APF) will take on Jhapa XI in the second match on Sunday. 

A total of 10 teams are taking part in the tournament including A Division outfits and Malaysia’s Himalaya Football Club. The winner of the tournament will be rewarded with Rs 1.5 million, while the runner-up will take on Rs 750,000. The best players of each category will be prized with Rs 50,000. 

 
• madan
 
• bhandari
 
• quarters