Himal Press 
Photo: NSL
KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Rayzrs has boosted its chances of reaching the playoffs of the Nepal Super League (NSL) with a 2-0 victory over Chitwan FC at the Dasharath Stadium on Monday.
Bakaray Mane and Amadou Diop were on the scoresheet for Kathmandu, which needed to win this fixture to stay in playoff contention. However, its fate depends on the result of other matches.
Chitwan captain Anjan Bista missed two good opportunities in the first half. In the 22nd minute, his shot from Victor Mansaray’s pass sailed over the bar. Moments later, Kathmandu goalkeeper Cheikh Gueye made a brilliant save to deny Bista from close range.
Kathmandu took the lead in the 32nd minute when Mane curled in a superb free kick from 25 yards.
Kathmandu dominated possession in the second half but struggled to extend its lead. Chitwan’s task grew harder in the 56th minute as it was reduced to 10 men. Alizon Alizonov received a second yellow card for fouling Yusuf Malik.
Kathmandu capitalized on the advantage in the 71st minute. Rohan Karki’s shot deflected off a Chitwan defender and fell on the path of Diop, who scored from six yards.
This was Kathmandu’s second win in six matches (two draws, two losses) of the NSL. With eight points, their playoff fate now hinges on other fixtures.
Chitwan, which has seven points from five matches, will face Dhangadhi FC in its final league match.
Four out of seven teams advance to the playoffs. The top two enter the qualifiers, while the third and fourth-placed teams play eliminators. Defending champions Lalitpur City have already secured a playoff spot with three wins and two draws, while Butwal Lumbini FC has already been eliminated. All other teams have chances of making to the playoffs.
