Machhindra Club secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 24th Aaha-Rara Gold Cup after they defeated Armed Police Force Club 2-0 at the Pokhara Stadium in Pokhara on Wednesday.

Aditya Shaka and Stephen Kamaha scored in the second half sealing the win for Machhindra, setting up a last-eight encounter against Three Star Club, who advanced directly into the quarters via a bye, on February 9.

The victory also helped Machhindra exact revenge for their semi-final loss in the 20th edition of the Aaha-Rara Gold Cup against APF, who went on to clinch the title.

Machhindra have not lifted the Aaha-Rara trophy yet.

Shakya, introduced as substitute in the 67th minute, gave Machhindra the lead in the 74th minute with a stunning solo effort. Latching onto a long pass from Ayush Ghalan, Shakya burst into the penalty area, deftly dribbled past APF’s Mahesh Lama and Dipesh Dhimal and sent a low drive into the far corner.

Cameroonian Kamaha wrapped up the victory for Machhindra in the 81st minute heading home Devendra Tamang’s free kick. APF goalkeeper Anjal Shrestha misjudged the flight of the ball, coming off his line in an unsuccessful attempt to punch it clear allowing Kamaha to seal the victory.

It was Machhindra’s second victory over APF in the past two weeks, having also edged them 1-0 in the President Cup in Kathmandu.

New Road Team and Church Boys play against each other on Thursday.

On Tuesday, Nepal Police Club beat hosts Sahara Club 1-0 to advance into quarter-finals. Police will meet Brigade Boys UK in the last eight on February 8.

Tribhuvan Army Club and Black Bulls FC Uzbekistan have already advanced to the last eight after receiving byes.