In AFC Challenge Cup playoff match at a rain-soaked Dasharath Stadium, Church Boys United suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Bhutan's Paro FC, missing out on a chance to advance to the group stage.
The clash saw Church Boys take an early lead with Laken Limbu's goal in the 38th minute. Limbu capitalized on a precise header pass from Moses Gaba to score from close range, giving the home team a vital advantage. However, this lead was short-lived.
Paro FC, struggling with the field conditions, missed several key opportunities in the first half. Their attempts included two shots that hit the post — one from William Opoku in the 9th minute and another from Kesuke Honda’s free kick in the 31st minute. Despite these setbacks, Paro managed to equalize just before halftime. Kinga Wangchuk scored in the 40th minute after Church Boys' goalkeeper Deep Karki advanced out of position, leveling the score at 1-1.
The second half saw both teams play with increased aggression, but it was Paro FC that took control. In the 56th minute, Church Boys' Sanish Shrestha had a promising shot saved by Paro’s keeper Milos Cupic. However, it was William Opoku who turned the game in Paro’s favor with a decisive goal in the 66th minute. Opoku, who had previously played in Nepal's Nripal A Division League and Nripal Super League, capitalized on a long ball from Cupic to score, showcasing his experience and skill.
Church Boys United made a final push for an equalizer but were unable to break through. In the 83rd minute, Cupic made a crucial save from a shot by substitute Sanjeev Bisht. The team’s efforts continued with Moses Gaba's shot going wide in the 89th minute and Rohan Karki’s header narrowly missing the target in the dying moments of injury time.
Paro FC's victory marks a historic moment as it is the first time a Bhutanese club has defeated a Nepali team in an AFC-level tournament. With this win, Paro advances to the group stage of the AFC Challenge League, while Church Boys United, making their continental debut, are eliminated from the competition.
The match highlighted the resilience and tactical prowess of Paro FC, while Church Boys United, despite their valiant efforts, fell short in a closely contested encounter.
