One of the tournament favorites Dhangadhi FC are up against undefeated FC Chitwan in the National Super League at Dashrath stadium Saturday.

With one loss, one win and one draw , they are in second position behind Butwal Lumbini on goal difference in standings. They had a golden opportunity to take the pole position in the match against Lalitpur City FC but only to squander. Despite taking the crucial lead, they failed to defend and had to settle for a point. As a matter of fact, before they surged ahead, they could have trailed behind, had it not been the spot kick miss by Lalitpur City FC.

Also Lalitpur City had the upper hand for most part of the game. They had the lion share of attacks but were let down by poor finish.

Dhangadhi FC did survive the opponent’s relentless onslaught as the defense barely held their ground. I would add, they were fortunate to escape with a draw. They were unable to reproduce the form that helped them beat Kathmandu Rayzrs convincingly. Clearly, they lacked consistency, spark, drive and purpose.

By and large, the contest between the two did not rise to the level of our expectations.The game was played at a leisurely pace throughout ninety minutes of action. For the second straight day, Dhangadi has another chance to take a leap to the top. Can they? We will have to wait and see.

In FC Chitwan, they have a tricky and unpredictable opposition who are capable of upsetting the apple cart. Although they are second from the bottom in standings, they are one of the two undefeated teams in the tournament so far

Undermining or underestimating the unfancied opponent would be a tactical blunder on their part.They will have to play consistent, organized and constructive football to have any chance of winning.

Apart from that, it is important that they play to their strengths and exploit opposition’s shortcomings as much as possible to their advantage. Having to play in as many days, I will not be surprised if they struggle to keep pace with the opponent physically. There is every chance and possibility that players are exhausted and mentally fatigued. Should that be the case,Dhangadhi FC are in trouble. The coach must rotate players and use bench strength appropriately.

A determined FC Chitwan will be looking to maintain their unbeaten streak intact. They know that if they pull off a victory over Dhangadi,they will leapfrog Butwal Lumbini in standings.

To me, they are the dark horse of the competition. Their chances cannot be ruled out considering the brand of football they play.They play a cautious attacking style, a combination of attacking football and cautious defending.

They have improved with each game . Had it not been unconvincing and shaky defending, they could have easily got the better of Butwal Lumbini.Twice they were in front but were unable to hold the lead to the end.

They have two highly experienced and talented players Bharat Khawas and Gerorge Prince Karki who have the ability to win matches for the team. It is very important that FC Chiwan take the field against Dhangadhi with a positive frame of mind and high confidence.

They must not ignore the fact that in a crucial game there is no room for complacency, unforced errors and defensive lapses. The defense has to learn from their mistakes and put up a vastly improved show, and the team on the
whole has to perform like a well oiled machine.

I see this match delicately balanced, with the outcome most likely to be decided by the slightest of the margins.


By Sushil Thapa, Fairfax , VA, USA