African United Club (AUC) clinched the 4th Aaha Gold Cup Football Tournament beating Mahendra Police Club (MPC) 2-0 in the finals in Pokhara today.

Jawalakhel Youth Club player Abdul Ghani was the hero scoring two goals for the African team though they were under pressure throughout the match. MPC pressed from the start but AUC’s stubborn defense line denied all chances and put MPC men at bay. MPC, who was playing without seven starters, dominated the first half but couldn’t open the account.

After the re-start, MPC again attacked relentlessly but they were bereft of any goals. Finally, they were downed by Deepak Poudel’s blunder, which was well utilized by speedster Abdul Gani, scoring a superb goal in the 80th minute. Gani doubled the tally, ensuring the victory, in the 85th minute with his excellent powerful shot that left MPC reserve goalie Mukunda Thapa completely stranded.

“It was brilliant game for us and the boys labored hard to pay homage to all Africans,” AUC captain Obabgbemiro Junior told reporters. “We salute our players and all Pokhreli people for their kind support and nice hospitality,” Junior added. Abdul Gani, the highest goal scorer, with four goals in three matches, clinched the trophy along with being named the Man of the Match.

“We could have won the match, but a small blunder cost us,” MPC coach Yogamber Suwal told reporters.

More than 12,000 people watched the final match. The chairman of Organizing committee and club president Bikram Thakali was pleased to see the large crowd in the finals. “It was excellent to see a large crowd in the finals,” Thakali poured his joy.

The ANFA President gave away the prizes to the winners and runners-up. Club well-wisher Nabin Gurung gave away the trophy and cash to the best player of the tournament, Ananta Thapa of MPC.