Tripureshwar, Nepal: William Opoku stole the show on Thursday, conjuring a stunning hat-trick as Birgunj United dismantled Kathmandu Razors 4-1 in a pulsating Nepal Super League (NSL) encounter. The dominant victory at the Dasharath Stadium keeps Birgunj’s playoff hopes alive, while Kathmandu’s stumble jeopardizes their qualification.

Opuku’s magic was the heart of the Birgunj resurgence. After Kathmandu drew first blood courtesy of Nkengue Junior’s 21st-minute counter-attack finish, the Ugandan striker turned the tide. He coolly converted a first-half penalty before Sunil Khadka, fresh off the bench, doubled the Birgunj lead a minute after the restart.

Opoku still needed to be finished. He headed home a free-kick with precision before capping off his performance with a sensational long-range strike, etching his name as the league’s second hat-trick hero. This late blitz left Kathmandu reeling, their missed penalty earlier proving even more costly.

The win sends Birgunj to sixth place with eight points from seven games, keeping their playoff bid within reach. Their final clash against FC Butwal Lumbini will be a must-win affair. For Kathmandu, the pressure intensifies. Stuck in fifth with nine points, their fate now hinges on a final-day showdown with Lalitpur City FC. Victory is mandatory to avoid a last-gasp NSL exit.

Elsewhere, the title race promises a nail-biting finish. Jhapa FC (10 points) face Chitwan FC (7 points) in a clash that could shape the final standings. A dramatic last-day scenario awaits if Chitwan can pull off an upset and Birgunj replicates their heroics against Butwal.

Opoku’s brilliance was undoubtedly the night’s highlight, but the Birgunj triumph was a collective effort built on skill, strategy, and a never-say-die attitude. With the NSL reaching its crescendo, every match promises drama and intrigue, with the playoff picture tantalizingly poised for a grand finale.