Khyber Cements Kashmir Super League 2025: Penalty Drama: Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC edge out Arco United to reach final

Srinagar, Jul 31: In a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC clinched a dramatic 4-1 victory over Arco United FC in a penalty shootout to book their place in the grand finale of the Khyber Cements Kashmir Super League.

As per a statement issued, the second qualifier of the Khyber Cements Kashmir Super League, powered by Athwas Hyundai and JK Sports Council, delivered a nail-biting contest between Arco United FC and Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC.

In what was a first in the tournament’s history, the match ended in a goalless draw in regulation time and was decided by a dramatic penalty shootout, with Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC emerging victorious 4-1 to secure their spot in the grand finale.

Both teams displayed immense grit, tactical discipline, and strong defensive organisation, keeping the match deadlocked despite numerous close chances. The tension peaked during the penalty shootout, which captivated the packed stadium and ended with Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC holding their nerve to seal the win.

The match was honoured by the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who attended the game during halftime. In his address, he lauded the organisers for putting together such a professionally managed league and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the massive turnout of passionate spectators. LG Sinha also thanked all sponsors and stakeholders for their role in reviving football in the Valley through this landmark initiative.

Sharing award details, the Khyber Game Changer Award was given to Salman Lateef (Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC), the Khyber Player of the Match to Burhan Sarwar (Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC), the Athwas Golden Moment Award to Jahangir Shagoo (Arco United FC), the Events Emporio X Factor Excellence Award to Shoaib Haneef (Arco United FC), and the Kings Player of the Match was given to Adnan Ayoub (Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC).

The award ceremony was graced by Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the JK Sports Council; Anisa Nabi, Chief Sports Officer; Javid Ahmad, DSO Central; and Mohammad Maqbool Lone from New JK Roadways, who appreciated the efforts of the players and organisers in uplifting the football ecosystem in the region.

With this win, Aqua Kashmir Avengers FC will now face United Elegant FC in what promises to be a historic grand finale of the Khyber Cements Kashmir Super League—a league that continues to unite, inspire, and transform the footballing landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.