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In a thrilling encounter between BFF Academy and Thimphu Raven FC, it was BFF Academy who emerged victorious with a brilliant performance in the second half, securing the first three crucial points in the BoB Bhutan Premier League. The match began with both teams showing their determination and skill on the field, but it was BFF Academy that showcased its brilliance in ball possession and was the team who had the upper hand in the first half, creating numerous scoring opportunities and testing the Thimphu Raven FC defence and goalkeeper on many occasions. Thimphu Raven FC, on the other hand, were a different team than they were against the team that played against Tensung FC and were more focused and organized in the defence line. They managed to keep a clean sheet with some outstanding saves from their goalkeeper, ensuring the deadlock remained unbroken at halftime. Thimphu Raven FC made several changes in the first XI BFF Academy kept the same starting XI which they face Druk Lhayul FC As the second half began, BFF Academy came out with renewed energy and determination, pushing forward with a more aggressive attacking approach. Their efforts bore fruit in the 66th minute when Pema Zangpo, the central half of the team, displayed his exceptional prowess in front of the goal, finding the back of the net with a powerful strike outside the box with an exceptional buildup. This breakthrough goal ignited the spirits of Thimphu Raven FC, which was pressing way too much upfront. The captain, Pema, wasn’t content with just one goal; he already knew the situation of the opposition goalkeeper, who was always way too high from his area. Pema tried his luck with his powerful shot from his own half, and the goalkeeper was nowhere to stop his strike. Pema Zangpo once again showcased his scoring ability. His brace put BFF Academy in a comfortable position, but they were not done yet.n’t Thimphu Raven FC vs BFF Academy Thimphu Raven FC vs BFF Academy In the 84th minute, BFF Academy was awarded a penalty after consulting the VAR, presenting them with an excellent opportunity to further extend their lead. Pema Zangpo, displaying nerves of steel, calmly stepped up and converted the penalty, completing his impressive hat trick and solidifying his position as the hero of the match. As the match reached the final 5 minutes of actual stoppage time, Thimphu Raven FC got two important chances for a consolation, but it was the goalkeeper of BFF Academy who showed his composure and stopped both of the shots. The drama continued and did not end there. In the additional minutes of the second half, Kinzang Tenzin, another standout player for BFF Academy, managed to get on the scoresheet with a superb finish. His goal was the icing on the cake, sealing the match with an emphatic 4-0 victory for BFF Academy. The final whistle blew, and BFF Academy celebrated a well-deserved win. 

Transport United FC secured their historic first win against RTC FC in a thrilling encounter at RTC’s home ground. The match ended with a scoreline of 2-1 in favour of Transport United FC, showcasing their determination and resilience on the field.  In the starting line-up, the new foreign player of Transport United FC, Mosses Gyabaan, started, while ex-forward of Transport United FC, Dilip Mongar started for RTC FC. The game kicked off with high intensity as both teams looked eager to claim the three points. Transport United FC lost both legs last season against RTC FC, and this year, with a different squad and a different head coach, they were determined to break that unwanted record from the opening minutes. Both teams tried several shots from far, but it was the debutant Moses who broke the deadlock in the 7th minute. He collected the ball from Tsendas flick and shot a powerful low attempt that found the right corner of the net, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess. In the opening half, RTC FC dominated possession with 58%, and they were building the game from the right flank of the field. However, Transport United FC was more focused on the traditional way of playing football, with lots of long balls and counters. The opening half ended with a scoreline of 1-0 in favour of Transport United FC, thanks to their debutant goal in the opening minutes. A debutants dream Jigme opens his RTC FC account to equalize in the second half Jigdrel Wangchuk celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal. However, RTC FC refused to back down and launched a series of spirited attacks in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when Jigme Tshultrim capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted home a well-placed shot after a beautiful cross from Karma Sonam from the right flank. The scores were now level, and the match became even more intense, with both teams fighting tooth and nail for supremacy. As the clock ticked down, both sides continued to create chances. RTC FC tried everything to lead, but Transport United FC’s defence stood firm and resilient. With the game hanging in the balance, however, it was Jigdrel Wangchuk of Transport United who eventually found the breakthrough in the 85th minute, They managed to pierce through RTC FC’s defence. A swift and incisive attack led to the winning goal, leaving the RTC fans stunned.  The final whistle blew, and Transport United FC celebrated their historic victory against RTC FC.

In an exhilarating football clash at the Paro Woochu Sports Arena, Paro FC emerged victorious with a stunning 3-1 triumph over Tensung FC. Paro FC had five changes in the starting eleven as compared to their first starting eleven. Meanwhile, Tensung FC made a change in their defensive line by dropping their captain, Sonam Phuntsho, due to an injury. Paro FC Starting line up Tensung FC starting line up Right from the kickoff, both teams displayed remarkable intensity, but it was Paro FC who drew first blood with a well-timed goal from striker Kazou in the 7th minute after a sublime cross was made by Evans inside the box. Undeterred, Tensung FC fought back valiantly, managing to temporarily level the score with a brilliant strike of their own in the next two minutes from their striker, who collected the ball inside the penalty area and launced a powerful strike. His shot hit Lobzang Chogyel’s thigh, which was then deflected inside the net, making his goalkeeper go the other way. The hat-trick hero Thinley Wangdi scores an equalizer and celebrates with his teammates Paro FC exhibited their attacking prowess, putting relentless pressure on the Tensung FC defence. In the 15th minute, Kazuo Homma, their striker, hit the woodwork from close range. Their relentless efforts paid off in the 29th minute when Evans was pushed from behind by Leki Tandin. After consulting the VAR, Paro FC was given the penalty, Tensung FC player argued for the decision but was unsuccessful. Initially, Kazuo’s shootout was saved by Tobgay, however, his clearance landed on Phurpa Wangchuk’s feet, who was one step ahead of Tensung FC, who, then again crossed back inside the box. Kazuo comfortably slotted the ball inside the net, giving Paro FC a lead at the half-hour mark.  Kazou Homma netted his hattrick of the match in the 31st minute from a well-delivered ball from the corner by Kinga Wangchuk. The first half ended in favour of Paro FC, with a scoreline of 3-1.  The second half witnessed an intensified battle as both sides pushed harder to gain an advantage. Despite Tensung FC’s spirited efforts to stage a comeback, Paro FC’s defence held firm until the final whistle, cementing their well-deserved victory.

In a scintillating display of football prowess, Thimphu City FC delivered a masterclass performance, thrashing Namlha FC by an astonishing 6 goals to nil in the ongoing BoB Bhutan Premier League 2023. The match took place at the bustling Changlimithang Stadium, packed with passionate fans eagerly awaiting an exhilarating encounter. From the opening whistle, Thimphu City FC exhibited their intent, dominating possession and setting a blistering tempo. Their attacking trident, comprising Dawa Tshering, Chencho Gyeltshen, and Armand, aided by their full-backs Nima Wangdi and Ajay Gurung, caused relentless trouble for Namlha FC’s defence right from the start. On the other side, Namlha FC made their first shot on target from their captain in the 6th minute.   Namlha FC goalkeeper and Thimphu City FC player fighting for the ball Despite dominating possession, it wasn’t until the 33rd minute, Thimphu City FC took the lead from the spot after Dawa Tshering was brought down inside the penalty box by Rajib Ghorui to assert their authority. In the next three minutes, their second goal followed after an astonishing run by Dawa Tshering inside the box to cut back to Chencho, who slotted the ball calmly behind the back of the net. The citizens added their third goal from their full-back, Ajay Gurung who perfectly timed his run after a beautiful loop pass was made by their captain into the opposition half. Chencho added his brace of the night with an easy tap-in after a cross was made by Armand into the box. The halftime scoreline read 3-0 in favor of the dominant Thimphu City FC. The second half brought no respite for Namlha FC, as Thimphu City FC picked up right where they left off. Armand added to his tally with a well-struck kick in the 55th minute, leaving the opposition goalkeeper rooted to the spot. As the match progressed, Namlha FC desperately tried to salvage some pride but found themselves overwhelmed by Thimphu City FC’s cohesive team play and individual brilliance. Namlha FC struggled to cope with the relentless waves of attacks from Thimphu City FC. Their midfield struggled to maintain possession, and their defence was continuously breached by incisive through balls and overlapping runs from the full-back of Thimphu City FC. However, in the 81st minute, they got a golden opportunity to score a consolation when Thimphu City FC’s new signing Tenzin Namgyel made a back pass to the goalkeeper, whose kick lacked power and was given to the captain, “Samten Norbu”. Samten collected the ball inside the penalty area and marched towards the goal area; however, his kick was timely saved by Yuya, who lounged forward to save the ball. The ball fell into the feet of Melam Rigzin, who failed to control the ball and was cleared by their captain. The final dagger came in the additional minute when Thimphu City FC’s full-back, Ajay Gurung, made an easy tap-in from a close distance after a beautiful cross was made from the right flank. As the referee blew the final whistle, Thimphu City FC celebrated a resounding victory with a 6-0 scoreline.  Thimphu City FC leads the points table after today’s superb display. Tomorrow, Paro FC is going to welcome Tensung FC in their first home match of the season

Changlimithang National Stadium, with its capacity to accommodate thousands of passionate fans, is no stranger to hosting remarkable football events. Over the years, it has witnessed many enthralling matches and unforgettable moments that have etched themselves into the annals of football history and it is also a home ground to 6 teams of Bhutan Premier League club. Its sprawling stands, surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, create an ambience that enhances the overall football experience, making it a cherished destination for players and fans alike. The SAFF U16 Championship provides a unique platform for young football talents from South Asian nations to showcase their skills and represent their countries with pride. This tournament not only promotes healthy competition but also fosters camaraderie and friendship among the participating nations. Fixtures Of SAFF U16 Championship, 2023 This year Nepal, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan are participating in the Championship, which will kick off on 1st September 2023 and the finals will be played on 10th September 2023. The opening match of the championship will be played between two times winners, “Bangladesh” and 4 times winners, “India.” Meanwhile, Bhutan will face Pakistan in the second match of the day. For Bhutan, the opportunity to host this esteemed tournament is a matter of immense pride. Football holds a special place in the hearts of the Bhutanese people, and our passion for the sport is evident during every match played at the Changlimithang National Stadium.