AFC Challenge League Preliminary Stage: Paro FC celebrates 2-1 win over Church Boys United

Paro FC faced off against Church Boys United at Dashrath Stadium, Kathmandu, Nepal on 13th August. Keisuke Honda #4 captained the team for this crucial match with Coach Puspalal Sharma. Church Boys United was led by captain Ananta Tamang #4 along with Coach Bal Gopal Maharjan.

Church Boys United took the lead with an assist from Moses Twum #7 to Lakhen Limbu #10 who scored a header in the 38th minute during the first half. Paro FC was able to equalize immediately in the 40th minute when Goalkeeper Deep Karki #22 couldn’t intercept a cross from Marco Ivanovic #23, the ball connected with Kinga Wangchuk #11 who executed a precise finish to level the playing field. This goal ensured that both teams were level heading into the second half.

GOAL SCORERS

As the second half started, the two teams were fighting to gain the upper hand. An opportunity arose at the 66th minute when William Opoku Asiedu #42 gained possession of the ball, he capitalized on the moment and scored a goal into the bottom left corner of the net. This broke the deadlock and put Paro FC in the lead. In the remaining time after the goal, there were numerous opportunities created by both teams but none translated into a goal.

The win over Church Boys United is a huge achievement and a significant step towards world football for Paro FC and Bhutanese Football. Even with harsh pitch conditions and a new team composition, Paro FC was able to secure the win. Keisuke Honda set out on a mission and it was accomplished, his input and inspiration surely helped the team perform better. Both Paro FC President Karma Jigme and Coach Pusplal voiced their appreciation and gratitude for the players and all the supporters whose efforts allowed Paro FC this remarkable achievement.