The thrill of the 1990s has returned to the Bangladesh Premier League as Mohammedan edged past their arch-rivals Abahani in a five-goal spectacle. The match, held yesterday at Comilla’s Shahid Dhirendranath Datta Stadium, saw the Black-and-Whites claim a 3-2 victory in their first win of the season from three games.
Despite concerns over internal disputes, delayed player payments, and uncertainty about whether Mohammedan could assemble a competitive squad, the team put in a superb performance on the pitch. Preparations had been rushed, yet their play displayed cohesion and determination from the very first whistle.
Mohammedan struck early when Rahim Uddin opened the scoring in the 20th minute. Before the break, Ghanaian centre-back Emmanuel Cake doubled the lead, giving the visitors a comfortable cushion. The second half saw Samuel Boateng finish off a fine assist from Shanto Hasan in the 58th minute to make it 3-0. Abahani responded with two quick-fire goals: Papon Singh netted from outside the box in the 72nd minute, followed six minutes later by Sheikh Mormalin, reducing the deficit to 3-2. The match continued with frantic end-to-end action, but Abahani were unable to find an equaliser, leaving the stadium to the delight of Mohammedan fans.
Elsewhere, Bashundhara Kings moved to the top of the table with a 2-0 victory over Arambagh, while Brothers Union defeated Fakirerpool Youngmen 2-0. Police FC managed a goalless draw with Fortis FC. With such an electrifying start, the new season promises plenty of excitement for Bangladeshi football supporters.