By Sachit Subba • Football • Apr 17, 2025 14:50 PM • 177 views
FC Chitwan scripted a dramatic comeback to beat Dhangadhi FC 3-1 in the final league fixture of the Nepal Super League, clinching a playoff berth for the first time in club history on Thursday at the Dasharath Stadium in Tripureshwor.
The crucial win catapulted Chitwan to third place on the league table with 10 points from six matches, while previously unbeaten Dhangadhi FC remained second with 11 points. The result also marked Dhangadhi's first defeat of the campaign.
Chitwan's triumph spelt heartbreak for Kathmandu Rayzrs, whose campaign ended at the league stage despite matching Pokhara Thunders' tally of eight points. Kathmandu fell short on goal difference, handing Pokhara the final playoff spot.
With the standings finalized, table-toppers Lalitpur City FC will face Dhangadhi FC in Qualifier 1, while Chitwan will face Pokhara in the Eliminator for a shot at the final.
Thursday's clash was a tale of resilience and precision for Chitwan after going behind early. George Prince Karki opened the scoring for Dhangadhi in the 7th minute, unleashing a powerful long-range strike after expertly controlling Prashant Laksham's cross.
But Chitwan responded swiftly. In the 14th minute, Nedir Mavlonov levelled the score from the penalty spot after Ashok Khawas handled the ball inside the box, deflecting a shot from Tshiring Gurung.
Just before halftime, Chitwan snatched the lead. Jay Gurung rose high to head home a pinpoint cross from Tshiring, sending his side into the break with a 2-1 advantage.
The momentum carried into the second half, and Chitwan extended their lead in the 54th minute—courtesy of an own goal. Dhangadhi's Amrit Shrestha inadvertently turned in a low cross from Victor Mansare, sealing Chitwan's 3-1 win.
It was a match that rewrote Chitwan's history and dramatically reshaped the playoff picture, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this season's NSL.
