By Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, July 1: In a thrilling display of experience and athleticism, Yaks veteran Darjeeling clinched the title at the 2nd APFA Gold Cup 2025, defeating Happy FC Kathmandu 2-0 in a gripping final at Gangtok’s historic Paljor Stadium on Monday.
The final kicked off with high energy as Yaks veteran Darjeeling seized early control. Just four minutes in, Dawa Tsering scored a sensational header from outside the box, capitalising on a pinpoint cross. Moments later, in the 8th minute, Tashi Tseten doubled the lead with a calm finish after receiving a deft through-ball that floated past Kathmandu’s backline. Despite a spirited effort from Happy FC Kathmandu, the early deficit proved insurmountable, and Yaks Veteran held their ground to lift the trophy.
Interestingly, both finalists had emerged from the same group in the preliminary stage, each earning 8 points from two wins and two draws with zero losses. Yaks Veteran Darjeeling topped the group with a slight edge on goal difference—just two goals separating them from Happy FC.
In the knockout rounds, Yaks Veteran Darjeeling eliminated their neighbours Kabug Drogpas Kalimpong 3-0 in the quarterfinals. They then edged out a strong Dhasa 40 United FC, a team that had topped their group with a perfect record in a dramatic semi-final. That match ended 3-3 in regulation, with Yaks clinching victory 4-3 after converting a last-minute penalty in extra time.
Happy FC Kathmandu, on the other hand, defeated TDL SC Bylakuppe 1-0 in their quarterfinal and overcame Kunpheling Rawangla in a 4-3 thriller in the semifinals, setting the stage for a gripping all-veteran final showdown.
Hosted over 16 days, the international tournament exclusively for Tibetan men aged 40 and above was organised by the All Pala Football Association (APFA). The event brought together 20 teams and nearly 400 players from India, Nepal, France, and the United States, including over 20 senior participants aged above 60. A total of 47 matches were played throughout the tournament.
This year’s edition marked a significant expansion from the inaugural tournament held in 2024 at Dhondupling (Clement Town), where Orissa Phuntsok Ling Settlement claimed the maiden title in a competition that featured 14 teams. The growing participation in 2025 highlights the tournament’s rising international appeal, with teams representing diverse Tibetan communities from Nepal, France, and the United States.
Looking ahead, the All Pala Football Association has announced that the third edition of the APFA Gold Cup will be held in 2026 at the Dekyi Larso Tibetan Settlement in Bylakuppe, Karnataka.
The AFPA Cup is an event designed to engage elder Tibetans in sports activities, fostering a sense of camaraderie and highlighting the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle at any age. The initiative is set to bring the community together, emphasising the values of teamwork and healthy living. This year’s tournament brought together over 400 veteran Tibetan footballers from across the globe in a unique celebration of sport, community, and culture.
