Kathmandu, Nepal – In a triumphant start to their Nepal Super League (NSL) campaign, Dhangadhi City FC, the former NSL runner-up, secured a decisive victory over new entrants Birganj United.

The clash unfolded on the tournament’s third day at the revered Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwar, culminating in a 2-1 win for Dhangadhi.

Fode Fofana and Ahmed Hijaji emerged as the heroes for Dhangadhi, while Birganj’s Hans Kofi capitalized on a penalty opportunity.

Dhangadhi Asserts Dominance Early

Dhangadhi asserted their dominance early in the game, with Fofana seizing an unguarded moment inside the penalty box to score a one-touch goal from Afiz Olawale’s precise cross, eluding the opposition’s defence just two minutes into the match.

Despite Birganj’s attempts to level the playing field, Dhangadi’s defence stood firm. William Opku Acedu’s strike, which could have posed a threat, was expertly handled by defender Richard Osei Akswemang in the ninth minute.

Missed Opportunities and Penalties

Birganj continued to miss opportunities, with Abhishek Gurung beating Dhangadi’s defence inside the box, only for Bhisan Gurung’s shot to go wide.

The first half witnessed Birganj squandering yet another chance as Acedu’s free header from Tej Tamang’s corner failed to find the mark.

However, in the dying moments of the first half, Birgunj found the equalizer. Falu Diagne’s handball in response to Jaze Gustavo’s attempt to head the corner cross to the post resulted in a penalty, which Hans expertly converted.

Dhangadhi Secures the Win in the Second Half

In the 58th minute, Dhangadhi missed an opportunity to regain the lead when marquee player Ashish Chaudhary failed to capitalize on Afiz’s brilliant through ball in a one-on-one situation.

With just one minute remaining, Dhangadhi secured the decisive second goal. Ahmed Hijaji orchestrated a one-touch finish from Kritisharat Chunju, directing the ball into the net and sealing the victory for Dhangadhi City FC.