Himal Press 
Photo: NSL
KATHMANDU: FC Chitwan dropped points for the first time in the 2025 Nepal Super League (NSL) after conceding a late equalizer against Jhapa FC at the Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu on Sunday.
Torric Jebrin gave Chitwan the lead in the 28th minute. Chitwan, which was on track to get all three points, conceded a penalty in the injury time, which was converted by Alhaji Gero.
Chitwan created two beautiful moves in the first 10 minutes. In the fifth minute, Jhapa keeper Anjal Shrestha saved Victor Mansaray’s shot from the edge of the box. Three minutes later, Chitwan’s Shishir Lekhi’s effort struck the post.
Jhapa created a chance in the 10th minute as Gero unleashed a powerful shot from inside the box. However, Chitwan Amal Knight produced a beautiful save to deny him.
Chitwan broke the deadlock in the 28th minute. Sumit Shrestha created a beautiful pass for Anjan Bista. Bista’s shot deflected off a Jhapa defender and fell to Shishir Lekhi, who created a sublime pass for Jebrin to score.
Gero missed a free header for Jhapa shortly after.
Chitwan adopted a defensive strategy in the second half and nearly conceded an own goal in the 58th minute. Abinash Syangtan had a shot at goal in the 82nd minute, but his shot went wide. Minutes later, Arsic Lazar struck the post from 25 yards.
Chitwan preserved the 1-0 lead until the regulation 90 minutes, but conceded a penalty in the injury time when Niraj Chaudhary fouled Aron Thapa inside the box. Gero stepped up and converted the spot-kick, securing the third straight draw for Jhapa.
