Abahani Limited Dhaka staged a spirited comeback to defeat arch-rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club 2-1 in a thrilling Dhaka derby in the United Healthcare Bangladesh Football League at Dhirendranath Dutta Stadium in Cumilla on Friday.
The high-voltage clash burst into life almost immediately, with Mohammedan taking the lead just three minutes into the match. Uzbekistan midfielder Muzaffarjon Muzaffarov stunned the opposition by scoring directly from a corner to hand the Black and Whites an early advantage.
However, Abahani responded with intent and composure. Young forward Mirajul Islam restored parity in the 17th minute, finishing neatly from inside the box after a well-worked move.
The decisive moment came midway through the second half when Malian striker Souleymane Diabate, facing his former club, made the difference. The forward struck in the 66th minute, squeezing the ball home between two defenders to complete the turnaround and secure all three points for the Sky Blues.
Mohammedan’s woes deepened in stoppage time when defender Shakil Ahad Topu was sent off after receiving his second yellow card, reducing his side to ten men.
The win sees Abahani climb to second in the standings with 22 points from 12 matches, just two behind leaders Bashundhara Kings, who have a game in hand.
In contrast, reigning champions Mohammedan continue to struggle, languishing in seventh place with 11 points from the same number of matches.
Earlier in the season, Mohammedan had edged Abahani 3-2 in their first-phase meeting, but this time the Sky Blues turned the tide in emphatic fashion.
