Kathmandu Secures Third Win in NVL; Karnali Suffers First Defeat

Kathmandu Reds claimed their third victory in the Nepal Volleyball League (NVL) by defeating Karnali Shivraj 3-1 in sets. Kathmandu broke Karnali’s unbeaten streak, strengthening their playoff chances. With Karnali suffering their third loss, their qualification for the playoffs will be decided after the final league match. On 24 Bhadra in Kathmandu, the Kathmandu Reds secured their third win in the NVL by overcoming Karnali Shivraj. The match, held at the National Sports Council’s covered hall in Tripureshwor, saw Kathmandu halt Karnali’s undefeated run and bolster their prospects of reaching the playoffs. This marked Karnali’s first defeat, coming after three consecutive wins. The first set was highly competitive, with Kathmandu taking it 28-26 to gain an early lead. In the second set, Kathmandu maintained momentum with a comfortable 25-18 win, extending their lead to 2-0. Karnali bounced back in the third set, winning 25-21 and staying in the match, but Kathmandu closed out the contest by winning the fourth set 25-21, clinching the overall victory. Both Kathmandu and Karnali have accumulated 8 points each from 4 matches played. Karnali missed the chance to secure a playoff spot before the final league match by losing to Kathmandu. Now, Karnali must await the outcome of their last game. Annapurna Spikers lead the standings with 9 points, followed by Karnali and Kathmandu tied for second and third with 8 points each. Sagarmatha Smashers hold fourth place with 7 points. The final three league matches are scheduled for Thursday, which will decide the top three teams. The first match at 1 PM will be between Annapurna and Sagarmatha. A win would send Annapurna directly to the final. The second match will feature Karnali against Madhesh Warriors, and the third will see Kathmandu face Khaptad Falcons.