DHARAMSHALA, June 6: Pokhara Tashiling, Delhi FC, Kollegal, Europe FC, TDL Bylakupee have all confirmed their berths in the quarter finals of the 21st Gyalyum Chenmo memorial Gold Cup.
Pokhara Tashiling supporters had given up on any chances of getting through to the next round as they faced Baroda FC yesterday. Pokhara needed a win with at least 3 goals difference. However, it was Baroda who scored first and put more pressure on Pokhara. Baroda led by 3 goals to 2 at halftime, dimming the remaining few hopes for Pokhara to qualify to the last eight. However, it was a different story past the halftime as Pokhara came back into the game with an equalizer within two minutes into the second half.
Pema Lhundup scored a hatrick for the defending champions who despite the enormous task did manage to top the table on goal difference. Kerela FC which has 6 points with wins in both their games exit the tournament.
Tibetan football fans say the format of the tournament is such that good teams are kicked out despite winning performances. “I know it is hard for the organizers too as there are 28 teams, way more than what a tournament of this duration can handle. I think 16 teams or at the most 20 would have been better so that all teams in a pool get to play against each other,” said Tenzin Thabkhay, a football enthusiast from Dehradun.
The remaining three teams for the quarter finals will be decided by the three games today. Mundgod needs to score at least two goals against Shimla but must not concede any goal to go through.
In group G, Kyidong Kathmandu with 4 points are table toppers but a win for Dhasa today against TCV United with at least more than goals’ margin will show them the exit.
Today is the last day of league games after which seven table toppers from seven pools will enter the quarter final. The remaining one spot will be given to the best team among second position holders in all pools. Guladhala FC with goal difference of 7 is the most likely team for the last spot but nothing can be confirmed until all league games are over.
The quarter finals will begin tomorrow.
