Kathmandu, Nepal: Dasharath Stadium erupted in a cacophony of cheers as Lalitpur City FC lifted the Nepal Super League trophy, emerging victorious from a heart-stopping 3-2 battle against Dhangadhi FC in the grand finale. This thrilling display of attacking firepower and defensive grit etched Lalitpur’s name into NSL history as they claimed the coveted championship in the league’s second edition.

Lalitpur’s Imo Ezekiel emerged as the undisputed hero of the night, bagging a double to silence the Dhangadhi faithful. Dinesh Henzan’s contribution solidified the triumph, with the team’s clinical finishing proving the difference-maker. But this wasn’t a one-person show. Keeper Jeffery Baltus stood tall against early Dhangadhi pressure, thwarting a dangerous corner aimed at Devendra Tamang in the 13th minute. Sanish Shrestha’s leadership marshalled the backline, with a crucial interception denying Dhangadhi a potential equalizer just before halftime.

Dhangadhi, hungry for glory, threatened with set pieces and counter-attacks. Afeez managed to break the deadlock in the 37th minute, but Lalitpur’s response was swift and unwavering. Dinesh Heinzon sent a warning shot with a near-miss free-kick just before the break, setting the stage for a scintillating second half.

The pivotal moment arrived in the 50th minute when Aditya Shakya’s perfectly weighted pass put Dinesh through on goal. The attacker slotted home with composure, sending a wave of delirium through the Lalitpur ranks. The momentum was palpable, and just eight minutes later, Imo, a man-possessed, found the net again with a clinical strike, pushing the lead to a seemingly insurmountable 3-1.

Dhangadhi refused to go down without a fight. Richard’s dismissal for a second yellow card in the 79th minute proved a further blow, but their spirit remained unbroken. Hijaji gave them a lifeline in the dying moments, but it was too late.

Lalitpur City FC, basking in the afterglow of a hard-fought victory, not only etched their name on the NSL trophy but also walked away with a hefty prize of 70 lakh rupees. Dhangadhi, while heartbroken, received 20 lakhs for their spirited runner-up finish.

Lalitpur City FC, crowned champions in a historic night, have etched their name alongside the best, while Dhangadhi’s valiant effort promises even more exhilarating contests in the seasons to come.