The 36th edition of the esteemed Jharna Cup Open Knockout Football Tournament, organized by Jharna Sports Club in Tilottama-6, Kunjalapur, officially began on Wednesday.

In the opening match, Gorkha Boys Sports Club from Butwal celebrated a commanding victory, defeating former champions Bhupu Sainik Zawai Sporting Club, Salghari, with a score of 6-2. Gorkha Boys' captain, Nirajan Khatri, was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance.

This win propels Gorkha Boys into the quarterfinals. Looking ahead, a match between Thutipipal and Kapilvastu-11 is scheduled for Thursday, as announced by game coordinator Vijay Pun.

The tournament was inaugurated by chief guest Ramakrishna Khand, head of Tilottama Municipality.

Sponsored in memory of Khagi Gurungseni by senior social worker Captain Narjang Gurung, the winner of the competition will receive a cash prize of 310,000, while the runner-up will take home 181,000. The final match is set to take place on October 17.