Kathmandu: The second edition of the Nepal Super League witnessed a captivating encounter on Wednesday evening, as Jhapa FC dealt a decisive blow to Dhangadhi FC’s unbeaten run.

Despite playing a man down for the final 11 minutes, Jhapa emerged victorious with a convincing 2-0 scoreline. Goals from Anjan Bista and Samiraj Thokar become barriers to Dhangadi’s entry into this edition’s playoff stage as a second team. 

Early Misses Set the Stage for a Thrilling Encounter

Jhapa nearly opened the scoring within the first 15 seconds when Jorge Sanchez found himself in a one-on-one opportunity after Rohan Karki’s mistake. However, Sanchez’s shot cannoned off the post, setting the tone for a match with near misses.

Both sides had their chances throughout the first half, with Ahmed Hijaji and Ashish Chaudhary for Dhangadhi and Abhishek Gurung for Jhapa all coming close to breaking the deadlock. Jhapa goalkeeper Stefan Cupic was also in inspired form, denying Gurung with a superb save from outside the box.

Jhapa Breaks the Deadlock and Holds Firm

The second half saw Jhapa finally find their rhythm. In the 53rd minute, captain Anjan Bista rose highest to head home Chiring Lama’s inviting cross, sending the Dasharath Stadium crowd into a frenzy.

Dhangadhi responded positively, pushing for an equalizer. Fode Fofana came close with a header in the 70th minute, but Jhapa’s defence held firm.

The leading side then doubled their lead in the 77th minute. Sanchez struck the post, but Samiraj Thokar followed up to tap the ball over the line.

Red Card Adds Drama, Jhapa Rises to the Challenge

Dhiraj Thajali’s red card in the 79th minute for a foul on Simon Limbu added a dramatic twist to the match. Despite being down to ten men, Jhapa showed incredible resilience, defending resolutely and denying Dhangadhi any clear-cut chances.

Playoff Hopes Hinge on Final Fixtures

The win leaves Jhapa in fourth place with 10 points from 7 games, while Dhangadhi’s title aspirations take a dent as they remain second with 12 points from 7 games. Both teams’ playoff fate now hangs in the balance, with their final fixtures playing a crucial role.

Dhangadhi faces league leaders Pokhara Thunders in a must-win encounter, while Jhapa will take on FC Chitwan in their final match. The top two teams will clash in a playoff for a direct finals berth, while the third and fourth-placed teams will battle it out for the remaining spot in the final.