Wapda Clinch Third Consecutive National Challenge Cup Title

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – WAPDA were crowned champions of the National Challenge Cup for the third successive time after edging past Khan Research Laboratories 1–0 in a tense final on Sunday.

The decisive moment came four minutes from full time when Samnan Qureshi calmly finished a long pass from Shayek Dost, controlling the ball expertly before side-footing it into the net to seal the title.

The closely contested final saw both sides battle intensely, with few clear-cut chances created. However, Wapda’s experience and composure proved decisive as they held firm after the late breakthrough to secure their third straight championship crown.

Reflecting on the winning goal, Samnan said he remained focused the moment the ball reached him. “As soon as I got the ball, I was only thinking about the goal. My first touch set it up perfectly,” he remarked.

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Shayek Dost, who was making his first appearance in the tournament after returning from suspension, expressed satisfaction with his assist. “The coach asked us to push forward in the final moments. I saw Samnan making the run and knew I had to deliver the ball to him,” he said.

Earlier, SA Gardens secured third place by defeating Pakistan Army 4–2 on penalties after the third-place playoff ended 2–2 in regulation time.

In individual awards, Waqar Baloch of KRL was named Player of the Tournament, while Ali Raza of Wapda claimed the Golden Boot. Wapda goalkeeper Hassan Ali was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper of the competition.