Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Pokhara Thunders claimed the top spot in the Nepal Super League (NSL) table after securing a 1-1 draw against Dhangadhi FC in its final match of the round-robin stage at the Dasharath Stadium on Friday.
Pokhara concluded the round-robin stage with 15 points from eight games with four wins, three draws, and one loss. Dhangadhi, which has 13 points from three wins, four draws, and one loss in eight matches, has also qualified for the playoffs. However, the team’s final position in the table will be determined by the results of other matches.
The match was evenly poised with both teams missing some good opportunities. Dhangadhi took the lead in the 42nd minute of the game when Ahmed Hijazi intercepted a pass near Dhangadhi’s post and created a beautiful pass for Olawale Afeez. Franklin Kuete intercepted the pass and directed the ball toward Pokhara’s keeper Yves Preso. However, before Preso could reach the ball, Afeez seized the opportunity and created a simple pass for Milan who made no mistake in putting his side 1-0 up.
Pokhara equalized in the 90th minute of the game as Suraj Jeu Thkauri set up Moses Gyabah Twum for an easy tap-in. Moses had three opportunities to secure all three points for his side in injury time. Dhangadhi keeper Mohamad Taha came outside the box to save his first attempt, while his second attempt missed the post, and the third attempt was collected by the Dhangadhi keeper.
The result ensures Pokhara’s place in the qualifier, while the outcomes of the remaining fixtures will determine whether Dhangadhi plays in the qualifier or eliminator in the playoffs.
