In a dramatic turn of events at the Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwar, substitute player Afiz Olawale emerged as the hero for former runners-up Dhangadhi FC, securing a thrilling 1-0 victory over Butwal Lumbini FC in the second edition of the Nepal Super League (NSL).

The defining moment came during injury time when Olawale, with remarkable composure, scored the decisive goal that propelled Dhangadhi to the top spot, establishing a clear two-point lead. This triumph followed Dhangadhi’s earlier success against Birganj United, where they secured a 2-1 victory.

Butwal Lumbini FC Struggles to Continue

Thursday’s clash marked a challenging outing for Butwal Lumbini FC, who had previously suffered a 2-0 defeat against Lalitpur, leaving them at the bottom without any points.

First Half: A Tale of Missed Opportunities

The first half witnessed intense action, with goalkeeper Mohammad Taha playing a crucial role in thwarting Butwal’s attempts. Notably, Taha saved a free kick from captain Eric Bista and navigated Dhangadhi away from potential danger.

Dhangadhi, eager to seize the lead, faced missed opportunities, including a close call when Al Hijaji’s shot was saved by Butwal’s goalkeeper Mohamadu. Despite the counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities, both teams entered the second half in a deadlock.

Second Half: A Defensive Battle with a Late-Game Twist

In the second half, Gillespie’s persistent efforts for Butwal were met with resilience from Taha, who made critical saves to keep Dhangadhi in contention. Butwal, too, had their chances, with iconic player Ashish Lama creating openings that went unexploited.

The turning point arrived in the 90th minute, with Afiz Olawale seizing the opportunity and directing the ball expertly into the net, clinching the lead for Dhangadhi. These late-game heroics secured their position at the top of the NSL standings.

A Match that Highlighted the Unpredictability of Football

The match showcased a blend of skill, missed opportunities, and intense moments, ultimately highlighting football’s unpredictable and captivating nature in the Nepal Super League.

Dhangadhi FC’s Triumph: a Testament to Their Fighting Spirit

Dhangadhi FC’s victory over Butwal Lumbini FC is a testament to their fighting spirit and determination. The team’s ability to capitalize on late-game opportunities and their resilience in adversity were critical factors in their success.

As the Nepal Super League continues, Dhangadhi FC will look to maintain their winning momentum and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with.