Nepal Police Club reached the final of the 24th Aaha-Rara Pokhara Gold Cup after defeating A-Division League champions Church Boys United 1-0 at the Pokhara Stadium on Wednesday.

In a thrilling match, Police secured their place in the final with a second-half goal from Sanjeev Lama, who netted the winner in the 58th minute. Lama’s strike from 25 yards was too much for Church Boys goalkeeper Tikendra Singh Thapa, who was unable to stop the shot.

The match was a landmark 250th game in the competition, and with this victory, Police have now reached the final for the 11th time. The six-time champions held their lead until the final whistle, maintaining a disciplined defence after Lama’s goal.

Lama was later named Player of the Match for his performance, with his stunning goal proving to be the match’s defining moment.

Police had previously beaten host team Sahara Club in the opening game and defeated Brigade Boys Club UK in the quarter-finals to reach the semis. Church Boys, on the other hand, triumphed over NRT and former champions Tribhuvan Army Club to secure their spot in the semi-finals.

In the other semi-final, Uzbekistan’s Black Bulls Football Club will face off against Three Star Club on Thursday.

Police, who have won the prestigious Gold Cup six times, are looking to add another title to their collection, with the final set to take place soon.