KDFA informed that top eight team from Nepal, three foreign teams and the host team would compete in the tournament to be held at the Pokhara Stadium. KDFA President Khem Gurung said participating teams of the second edition would be more competitive than the first edition. "We are working to make the tournament more interesting and obviously we will call better foreign teams ," said Gurung during a press meet in Pokhara on Sunday.[break]
The winner of the second edition will get Rs 305,000 while runner-up will get Rs 150,000. Winner of the last edition had received Rs 250,000 while runner-up had bagged Rs 125,000.
"The prize money has been increased in the second edition to boost players´ confidence. We hope it will help tournament to gain more popularity," said Gurung. "Safal Cup will now be the football tournament outside Kathmandu carrying the biggest prize money," he claimed.
According to Gurung, the best player of tournament, the best goalkeeper, midfielder, defender, striker, coach and the highest scorer would also be awarded.
Gurung said the tournament is being organized with the aim of developing Pokhara as the sports capital of the country. "This tournament would provide a platform for emerging talents in the region," said Gurung.
Safal milk, a product of Sujal Dairy under Laxmi Group, is the chief sponsor of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Gurung informed that KDFA would award a player and a journalist every year in Pokhara. According to Gurung, the best footballer of Kaski will receive Rs 25,000 while a journalist of the year, who contributes in the development of sports sector, will bag a purse of Rs 15,000.
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