Hat-trick hero: Machhindra FC wins KP Oli Cup 2-0 against Army FC

KATHMANDU: Machhindra FC triumphed 2-0 over Tribhuvan Army Football Club in the final of the KP Oli Cup, securing their second title of the season.

A self-goal by Bimal Pandey and a strike by Stephan Jamah Jali ensured Machhindra’s victory at the Dasarath Stadium.

In the 29th minute, Machhindra took the lead. Andrees Nia’s pass set up Sanish Shrestha for a cross, which bounced in front of Army’s defender. Bimal Pandey attempted to clear the ball, but his shot found its way into his own net, gifting Machhindra a 1-0 lead.

In the 35th minute, Malik Yusuf had a chance to equalize, but Army’s goalkeeper Vikesh Kuthu came forward to make a crucial save. Army struggled to create goal-scoring opportunities in the first half.

Trailing 1-0, Army came out strong in the second half, eager to level the score. In the 51st minute, Dinesh Hengjan’s precise pass found Gillespie Jung Karki, but he failed to make contact with the ball. Devendra Tamang then cleared the ball off the line to deny Army a golden opportunity.

Just four minutes later, Nirajan Dhami’s brilliant pass to Navayug missed the mark, with Navayug’s weak shot drifting just wide of the post. Army’s attempts to equalize were thwarted.

Coach Meghraj KC made a tactical change, substituting winger Dishant Rai for striker Navayug, but the move did not yield results.

In the 72nd minute, Machhindra doubled their lead. Malik Yusuf’s throw-in was passed to Stephan Jamah Jali, who slotted home a clinical finish to make it 2-0. With no further goals from either team, Machhindra secured the title.

This is Machhindra’s second title of the season, having previously won the Itahari Gold Cup. Despite reaching the final for the first time this season, Army could not claim the trophy.

Machhindra’s path to the final included victories over Bhutan’s Transport United (1-0) and hosts KP Oli FC (4-0) in the semifinals. Army had defeated Nepal Police Club (2-0) and Sankata Club (2-1) on their way to the final.

As champions, Machhindra FC received a cash prize of Rs 15,111,111, while runner-up Tribhuvan Army FC took home Rs 500,000.

The final was made even more memorable with the presence of legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon in the stands, adding a special touch to the event.