Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwar witnessed a night of high drama as Lalitpur City FC carved their path to the Nepal Super League final with a 2-1 extra-time triumph over Pokhara Thunders.

Both sides traded blows throughout the regulation 90 minutes, showcasing the sheer intensity of the clash. Ezekiel and Kushal Deuba etched their names on the scoresheet for Lalitpur, while Pokhara’s Stefan Annor delivered a vital equalizer amidst the tension.

Lalitpur faced an early obstacle in the 33rd minute, reduced to ten men after a controversial double yellow card for a foul on Ayush Ghalan. Undeterred, Ezekiel pounced on Papa Ibu Kebe’s pinpoint pass just before halftime, weaving through defenders and coolly finishing past Priso.

However, goalkeeper Geoffrey Baltus stood firm for Lalitpur in the second half, denying Dinesh Rajbanshi’s free-kick. At the same time, Annor’s 71st-minute header off Joe Aydu’s cross brought Pokhara level, sending the tie into extra time.

However, it was Lalitpur who wrote the final chapter. Four minutes into the extra period, Kushal rose to the occasion, heading home to spark wild celebrations on the City bench and secure a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Lalitpur is now marching towards the NSL final, where they will face Dhangadhi FC in a mouthwatering battle for the coveted trophy.