In a dramatic encounter at Dasharath Stadium, Sporting Ilam FC were denied a second consecutive victory after relinquishing a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Dhangadhi FC.

Ilam started brightly and led with two goals in the first half. However, their second-half performance was lacklustre, allowing Dhangadhi to capitalize on their errors and mount a remarkable comeback.

Ilam Dominates First Half, Dhangadhi Stages Comeback

Ilam initially secured a 2-0 lead in the first half, showcasing dominance, but the tides shifted in the second half, ultimately culminating in a shared outcome. Despite Dhangadhi’s commendable performance in the initial period, they were trailing 2-0 at halftime, with Ilam asserting control.

However, the second half witnessed a remarkable comeback by Dhangadhi, as they netted two consecutive goals, seizing control of the game. Despite Ilam’s efforts to regain momentum, they fell short, resulting in the match concluding in a draw.

Dhangadhi Leads the Table, Ilam Faces Challenges

This marks Dhangadhi’s second consecutive draw, positioning them at the top of the table with 8 points from 4 games, while Ilam secured 4 points from 5 games, currently placing them in seventh.

Ilam faced the match without two key defensive players, as Ashish Gurung was suspended due to three yellow cards, and goalkeeper-captain Bikesh Kuthu was sidelined with an injury.

The game also saw challenges for Ilam, with midfielder Abdulae Ba leaving the field in the fourth minute due to injury. In the 13th minute, Dhangadhi’s Ashish Chaudhary’s through-pass was stopped by goalkeeper Samit Shrestha, who played instead of the injured Bikesh Kuthu.

Exciting First Half Leads to Tense Second Half

Numerous opportunities unfolded in the match, with Ilam leading in the 45th minute through Fode Kamara’s Goal on Ndaw’s cross. The lead was extended in the first half’s added time when Thiom tapped in a corner kick.

The second half witnessed both teams striving for supremacy, with Dhangadhi’s Olawale equalizing in the 83rd minute with a splendid header from Fofana’s cross. Despite late-game drama, including Olawale’s shot being caught by Samit in injury time and Dhangadhi hitting the crossbar in their pursuit of a winning goal, the match ended in a draw.

Kathmandu Razors vs Butwal Lumbini FC Up Next

The excitement continues with the day’s second match featuring Kathmandu Razors Football Club and Butwal Lumbini Football Club, scheduled to kick off at 5 pm at Dasharath Stadium.