African Roots Association stunned Nepal Police Club 2-0 in the second semi-final of the Aaha-Rara Gold Cup in Pokhara on Thursday.

Roots Association scored at both ends to send the six-time champions packing and set up the title clash with Sankata Club, who edged Armed Police Force Club in the first semi-final. The final will take place on Saturday.

Forward Basscek gave Roots Association a second minute lead dispossessing the ball from Tej Tamang. Police goalie Sanjit Shrestha gave a short pass to Ajit Bhandari inside the area and the latter passed it to Tamang. But Root Association forward Moussa seized the ball from Tamang and set up Basscek who slammed at the near post.

Though Police played a technically sound game, the physically superior Roots Association played long passes and high balls keeping the departmental opponents under pressure. After taking an early lead, the Roots Association shifted their strategy to holding the score and were successful.

They sealed the victory in the fading moments of the four-minute stoppage time utilising a corner kick. Moussa played a short pass to R Mbakop from corner before the former supplied to Rim inside the area, who fired at the far post to ensure their ticket for the final.

Roots Association coach Senge Boris said his side were able to play pressure free match after scoring an early goal. He also promised to come up with better performance in the final.