African United Club (AUC) led by star Obagbemiro Junior blanked out Rupendehi XI 2-0 to enter the semifinals of the 4th Aaha Gold Cup Football Tournament here in Pokhara today.

The match was the first ever in Nepalese Football inviting a complete set of African players. The start of the game was sluggish with both teams checking each other’s vigor. However, Mahabir mid-fielder Ike Okushie was brilliant on the field as he attempted two shots that was brilliantly denied by Rupendehi goalie Sawan Gurung.

Unfortunately, Gurung had to leave the ground due to knee injury, after colliding with Ike Okushie in the 18th minute. Bikram Sen, who replaced the regular goalie was also effective with his gloves, but he couldn’t save his team from a goal in the 37th minute when JYC’s Abdul Gani scored off the rebound of Okushie’s shot. The first half ended with AUC up 1-0.

The physical strength, power game and air ball was AUC’s main weapons that worked to oust the Rupendehi side from the tournament. BBC star Obagbemiro Junior, playing midfield, was brilliant with his versatile character supplying balls all around the ground (with an ankle-swelling problem). The second goal came through Ikushie who guided the ball from the edge of the box dodging as many as three defenders before firing home a brilliant goal in the 61st minute.

“It was brilliant game and the win was as per our expectations,” AUC coach Shizioke told Nepalnews. However, captain Obagbemiro was upset with injuries of his boys. “I hope everyone will be okay before the semifinal meet against MMC,” he said.

Nonetheless, Rupendehi coach Yam Prasad Gurung was pleased with his team. “The boys had some physiological pressure with the big names, but I am happy with their performance,” he added.

On Wednesday, Tournament “Dark Horse” Knight Chess Club will lock horns against Mahendra Police Club for a place in the finals.