Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Lumbini Lions face Janakpur Bolts in their final group-stage match of the Nepal Premier League on Friday, knowing that a win will seal their spot in the playoffs.
Lumbini sit on six points from six games with three wins and three losses. Janakpur have just two points from five matches, and a defeat on Friday will end their campaign. A win would keep them alive, but their qualification would still hinge on results elsewhere.
The match is also crucial for Chitwan Rhinos and Pokhara Avengers, who are playing on Saturday, as a Lumbini defeat would reignite their playoff hopes. If Lumbini win, however, it will put the Rhinos, Avengers, and Bolts all out of the race.
Karnali Yaks are already out of contention.
Lumbini enter the match in strong form after two straight victories following three consecutive losses. Janakpur also regained momentum with their first win after four defeats. Both sides will be looking to extend their winning streaks on Friday.
Sudurpashchim Royals, Kathmandu Gorkhas, and Biratnagar Kings have already secured playoff berths. Sudurpashchim are unbeaten with 12 points from six games, while Kathmandu have 10 points from seven. Biratnagar have eight points from six matches. Sudurpashchim and Biratnagar play in the first match on Saturday.
One playoff spot is still open. Chitwan Rhinos and Pokhara Avengers have four points each, while Janakpur have two. A Lumbini defeat on Friday will keep all four – Lions, Bolts, Avengers and Rhinos – in the playoff race. However, a Lumbini win will end the playoff hopes of the other three.
