Abahani Limited have been placed in the same group with Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra and Rahmatganj Muslim Friends Society during the draw of Independence Cup 2023 held at Bangladesh Football Federation House Monday.
Apart from these three Bangladesh Premier League outfits, the other side in Group B are Air Force football team who progressed through qualification.
Abahani will face Air Force on the opening day of the season opening competition at Sheikh Fazlul Haque Mani Stadium in Gopalganj Friday.
Defending champions Bashundhara Kings, drawn in Group D alongside Chittagong Abahani Ltd and Navy football team, will kick off their campaign against Navy at Kings Arena Saturday.
Mohammedan Sporting Club Limited got Fortis FC and Army football team in Group C and take on Army on the second day of the tournament.
Group A comprises three BPL teams – Lt. Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club Ltd, Police FC and Brothers Union.
Police and Brothers will face off against each other in the inaugural match of the 13-team tournament at Birshrestha Flt Lt. Matiur Rahman Stadium in Munshiganj.
Group A: Sheikh Jamal, Police, Brothers
Group B: Abahani, Sheikh Russel, Rahmatganj, Air Force
Group C: Mohammedan, Fortis, Army
Group D: Bashundhara Kings, Ctg Abahani, Navy