Defending champions Abahani Limited’s hope of qualifying for the semi final of the cash-rich Super Cup faded slightly as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Feni Soccer
Club at the Bangabandhu National Stadium on Sunday.
Abahani, who were held to a 0-0 draw by Muktijoddha Sangsad in their opening match, require a victory in their last match against group favorites Sheikh Russell Krira Chakra on Tuesday to have any chance of qualifying for the last four.
Abahani conceded the opening goal in the 45th minute from the penalty spot.
The Sky-Blue-outfit, however, came back strongly in the second half to take a 2-1 lead but they conceded a late goal in the dying stages of the game to throw away two precious points.
Soccer Club’s Aminur Rahman Sajib played a vital role in the game, winning the first penalty and scoring the equaliser with a long-range effort.
On the other hand Abahani winger Atiqur Rahman Meshu, who scored the first goal, had the opportunity of wrapping up victory for the Dhanmondi-based outfit in the second half but his feeble attempt from the penalty spot was easily saved by Soccer Club goalkeeper Masud Ahmed Uzzal.
Abahani dominated possession in the first half but could not create any clear-cut chances. In the 16th minute, Enamul’s powerful attempt was blocked by the Soccer Club goalie. Sujan gave away a penalty to Soccer Club in the last minute before the interval when he brought down Sajib inside the box and Akbar Hossain Ridon made no mistake to give his side a 1-0 lead.
Abahani equalised the score line in the 66th minute when Saikat Bhoumick delivered a cross from the right flank, and Meshu duly planted a firm header which landed at the back of the net.
In the very next minute, Shahedul Alam gave Abahani the lead with a right-footed shot from the edge of the box after receiving a through pass from Shiraji.
Meshu got the golden chance to increase the lead in the 81st minute as Soccer Club defender Shimul fouled Towhidul Alam inside the box, but Meshu deposited the ball straight at the hands of goalkeeper Uzzal.
However, Soccer Club striker Sajib stunned the Abahani dugout in the last minute of regulation time as he scored with a fierce shot from 35 yards.
-With New Age input
