Dhangadhi defeats Jhapa 1-0 to book spot in NSL playoffs

KATHMANDU: Dhangadhi FC secured its spot in the Nepal Super League (NSL) playoffs with a 1-0 victory over Jhapa FC at Dasharath Stadium on Monday.

The win propelled Dhangadhi to the top of the table with 11 points from five matches. Lalitpur City FC, which has also qualified for the playoffs, has the same number of points but trails on goal difference.

An own goal by Dipesh Dhimal proved decisive in the match. In the 61st minute, Ahmad Hijaji’s shot from Sergio Barboza’s cross deflected off Dhamal and sailed into the net.

Jhapa had the opportunity to level the score in the closing stages. However, Prabin Basnet’s powerful strike hit the crossbar and Aron Thapa was unable to convert the rebound. Thapa had another opportunity during injury time, but Dhangadhi goalkeeper Walid Birrou made a crucial save to preserve his team’s clean sheet.

Dhangadhi FC will face Chitwan FC in the last match of its league stage on Thursday.