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KARACHI: WAPDA clinched their third consecutive National Challenge Cup title on Sunday, beating Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) 1-0 in a tense, hard-fought final decided by a dramatic late goal from Samnan Qureshi.
With the match seemingly drifting towards extra time at the KPT Sports Complex, Qureshi broke the deadlock four minutes from the final whistle. Latching onto a lofted pass from Shayek Dost, he cushioned the ball with composure before guiding a clinical side-foot finish past the KRL goalkeeper, sparking celebrations among the WAPDA faithful.
The narrow victory sealed a historic hat-trick of titles for WAPDA, underlining their dominance in Pakistan’s premier domestic cup competition.
The final had been a cagey affair, with both sides locked in a tactical battle and clear-cut chances at a premium. KRL, determined to reclaim the crown, matched WAPDA stride for stride for much of the contest. But experience ultimately tilted the balance.
“The moment I got the ball, I only had eyes on the goal,” Qureshi said after the match. “The first touch set it up perfectly, and I knew I couldn’t miss.”
Shayek Dost, making his first appearance of the tournament after returning from suspension, played a decisive role in the title-winning move. Operating down the left flank in the closing stages, he delivered the long pass that unlocked KRL’s defence.
“The coach told me we had to push forward in the dying minutes and try to get a goal,” Shayek said. “When I saw Samnan making the run, I knew I had to find him. Thankfully, it worked.”
Earlier in the day, SA Gardens secured third place with a 4-2 victory on penalties over Pakistan Army after the playoff ended 2-2 in regulation time.
Despite finishing runners-up, KRL’s Waqar Baloch was named Player of the Tournament for his consistent performances throughout the competition. WAPDA’s Ali Raza claimed the Golden Boot award, while teammate Hassan Ali was adjudged Best Goalkeeper.
For WAPDA, however, the night belonged to Qureshi — and to a team that has now etched its name into the competition’s history with a remarkable achievement.
