Sheikh Russell KC can seal the title race of the Bangladesh Premier League today when they take on former champions Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club in a crucial
encounter at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.
A mere draw for Russell in the brotherly affair will see Russell claim their maiden BPL title while a win for Jamal will throw the title race wide open as it will enable Jamal and fellow contenders Abahani Limited with an outside chance.
Russell, who already have the Federation Cup and the Independence Cup in their trophy cabinet this season, lead the standings with 32 points from 14 matches. Arch-rivals Abahani are occupying second spot with 29 points from 15 matches while Jamal are a point adrift of Abahani in third place having played 14 matches.
Jamal will be the more desperate side of the two as they have no choice but to win if they are to stay in the title race. If they can win and Russell loses their last match of the league campaign against unfancied Feni Soccer Club, then they will get an opportunity to regain the title that they lost to Abahani last season.
Jamal still have to beat Brothers Union in their last match to achieve the feat.
In case Jamal beat Russell, defending champions Abahani will also get a chance provided they win their last game against Muktijoddha Sangsad.
The corresponding fixture between Jamal and Russell earlier in the season ended in a stalemate.
Jamal will be looking to avenge their twin defeats to Russell recently in the final of the Federation Cup and Independence Cup as Russell triumphed on both occasions to be on the threshold of a treble going into the tie.
-With New Age input