Exciting Quarterfinal Action at the 2023-24 National Football Challenge Cup: WAPDA and SA Gardens FC Head to Semifinals

WAPDA and SA Gardens FC emerged victorious in their quarterfinal matches at the Jinnah Sports Complex in Islamabad, securing spots in the semifinals of the 2023-24 National Football Challenge Cup.

Defending champions WAPDA claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Pakistan Air Force, with Pakistan international Shayek Dost scoring the decisive goal early on. The match ended with no further goals, as both teams missed opportunities. PAF, led by former Pakistan national team manager Shahzad Anwar, exited the tournament.

Shayek Dost’s goal in this Round Two fixture marked his seventh in just four matches, positioning him as a potential top scorer in the tournament. WAPDA is set to face Pakistan Army in the upcoming semifinal scheduled for 10 May.

In another quarterfinal showdown, SA Gardens FC triumphed over WSTC with a solitary goal from defender Umar Sadozai. The victory propels SA Gardens into the semifinals where they will face HEC, who caused an upset by eliminating KRL with a 1-0 win on 7 May.

A brief respite is scheduled for 9 May before the action resumes with the semifinals on 10 May. The losing semifinalists will battle it out for the third-place spot on 11 May. The much-anticipated National Challenge Cup final is slated for 12 May, likely to take place at Jinnah Stadium.

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.