How was 1995 final
Last time a Bangladeshi club reached the IFA Shield final was in 1995 whenMohammedan SCwere beaten by East Bengal 3-1 in atiebreaker after the 120-minute time ended 1-1.According to former national defender Jewel Rana, who also played for Mohammedan in the final, it was a 4 hour and 30 minutes thriller. Midfielder Nurul Haque Manik put the Black and Whites ahead in the first half before East Bengal equalized the margin in stoppage time. Two players from either side received red cards in the game,which fumed the crowd and the game was stopped several times.
“We played against 14 men, including referee and linesmen. We were way better side than them and they (match officials) did everything not to let us win. This time the whole world will be watching and I wish all the luck to Sheikh Jamal,” memorised Jewel Rana who is now assistant coach of Mohammedan.
Sheikh Jamal offer incentives
Sheikh Jamal president Manjur Kader informed that team will receive $25,000 if they win today and clinch the first ever Shield title. Earlier, the team got $10,000 after beating Mohun Bagan and East Bengal.
BFF president to watch final
Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) president Kazi Salahuddin is scheduled to fly to Kolkata today morning to watch the final. The BFF chief will return the next day.
United clinch third spot
The struggle continued for East Bengal as they were defeated by United SC 6-5 on penalties in the third place play-off of the IFA Shield. The teams were locked 1-1after 120 minutes.
