Dhangadhi FC (DFC) made a statement in their first match of the Nepal Super League (NSL) 2025, securing a dominant 4-1 victory over Butwal Lumbini FC (BLFC) at the Dasharath Stadium. Lebanese forward Ahmad Hijazi stole the show with a brace, while Kritish Ratna Chhunju and Sergio Barboza Jr. also found the net for DFC. Butwal’s only goal came from Japanese Kenta Hara.
Early Goals Set the Tone
DFC wasted no time taking the lead as Hijazi opened the scoring in the 6th minute. A brilliant lofted pass from defensive midfielder M El Jannouani found Hijazi, whose precise finish put DFC ahead. However, BLFC responded in the 31st minute through Kenta Hara, who produced a stunning backheel flick from a low pass after a short corner, leveling the match at 1-1.
Dhangadhi FC Second-Half Brilliance
The first half ended with both teams tied, but DFC came out stronger in the second half. Kritish Ratna Chhunju, DFC’s marquee player, scored a spectacular solo goal in the 74th minute, dribbling past multiple defenders before calmly finishing past BLFC goalkeeper Deep Karki. This goal restored DFC’s lead and shifted momentum in their favor.
Hijazi sealed the victory in injury time (94th minute) with an exceptional strike from a tight angle near the left edge of the penalty area, leaving BLFC’s defense helpless. Just moments later, Brazilian attacker Sergio Barboza Jr. added another goal, smashing a powerful near-post shot past Karki, completing DFC’s dominant performance.
Key Performances and Awards
DFC’s midfield maestro M El Jannouani was instrumental, providing assists for both of Hijazi’s goals despite playing in a defensive midfield role.
On the other hand, BLFC’s defense struggled, especially in handling DFC’s quick attacking transitions.
- Man of the Match: Ahmad Hijazi (NPR 30K)
- Energetic Player of the Match: Kritish Ratna Chhunju (NPR 15K)
Butwal Lumbini FC Struggles
While this was DFC’s first match in NSL 2025, BLFC have now gone two games without a win, following their earlier loss. Their defense, particularly in Zone 14, was once again exposed, and they will need to improve if they hope to compete for the title.
DFC’s impressive start establishes them as a strong contender in this year’s NSL, while BLFC must regroup and find solutions to their defensive vulnerabilities before their next fixture.
Photos Credit = Udipt Singh Chhetry
