FG Polo clinch historic 49th EcoStar Aibak Polo Cup title

 FG Polo emerged as the champions of the 49th EcoStar Aibak Cup, defeating Diamond Paints by 7½-4 in a high-octane final at the historic Lahore Polo Club on Saturday, 24NewsHD TV reported.  

The final, held amid the festive atmosphere of Basant, attracted a large crowd of polo enthusiasts and residents, who packed the stands to witness one of the most prestigious titles in Pakistan’s polo calendar.

FG Polo produced a dominant all-round performance, underpinned by exceptional teamwork and clinical finishing.

Raja Mikayial Sami led the charge with four goals, while Marcos Rivarola added a hat-trick to seal the victory.

FG Polo also benefited from a half-goal handicap advantage.

Diamond Paints mounted a spirited challenge but were unable to close the gap.

Lao Abelenda scored three goals for the runners-up, while Mohammad Ali Malik contributed one.

At the prize distribution ceremony, Marcos Rivarola was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) and awarded a 65-inch QLED television for his decisive role in the final.

Raja Mikayial Sami claimed the top scorer award and received a 55-inch QLED television.

 The Best Playing Pony award went to Mustaza, owned by Mian Abbas Mukhtar, in recognition of the mare’s agility and endurance.

The ceremony was attended by the US Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Ms Natalie A Baker, who was the chief guest.

“It is wonderful to be here at the Lahore Polo Club. Watching such high-quality polo amid the vibrant Basant celebrations and pleasant Lahore weather has been a truly exhilarating experience,” she said.

Also present were DWP Group Director Taha Muhammad Naseem, Lahore Polo Club executive committee members Mohammad Nasir and Raja Amir, Secretary Maj Amjad Ghafoor, EcoStar Marketing Head Shoaib Younas, along with a large number of players, families and spectators.

Earlier, BN Polo claimed the subsidiary final, edging out SQ Seagold 8–6, setting the tone for a full day of competitive polo action at the venue.