The second edition of the Nepal Super League (NSL) witnessed a heart-stopping encounter between Dhangadhi FC and Pokhara Thunders, ending in a dramatic 1-1 draw. The pulsating match at the Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwar showcased the unpredictable nature of football and kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last minute.

Dhangadhi, currently sitting in second place with 13 points from seven games, secured their spot in the playoffs with the draw. Meanwhile, Pokhara maintained their top position with 15 points from an equal number of matches.

The intensity was palpable from the outset, with both teams eager to claim the three points. Pokhara goalkeeper Priso made a crucial save in the 32nd minute, denying Ahmad Hijaji’s header from a Milan Rai cross and preventing an early Dhangadhi opener.

However, Dhangadhi would only be allowed for a short time. In the 43rd minute, Milan Rai capitalized on Afiz Olawale’s pass, coolly controlling Franklin Tala’s back pass and slotting the ball past Priso to give Dhangadhi the lead.

Pokhara almost equalized immediately in the 45th minute, but Dhangadhi goalkeeper Mohammad Taha expertly saved Kamal Bahadur Thapa’s shot from Stephan Anor’s crossbar rebound.

The second half continued to be a tense affair, with both teams exchanging blows. When it seemed Dhangadhi would hold on for the win, Pokhara struck a dramatic late equalizer in the 90th minute. Surajjiu Thakuri’s free-kick found Moses Gyaba unmarked in the box, and the prolific striker made no mistake, directing the ball into the net to send the Pokhara fans into raptures.

There was still time for more drama, as Dhangadhi captain Devendra Tamang came agonizingly close to snatching the winner in the dying moments, but his free-kick sailed narrowly over the bar.

The 1-1 draw was a fair result in a match that saw both teams give their all. Dhangadhi will be happy to have secured their playoff spot, while Pokhara will be disappointed to have missed out on extending their lead at the top of the table.