Reigning champions Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club and Mohammedan kicked off their Federation Cup campaign with victories over Feni Soccer Club and Rahmatganj respectively at Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday.
Premier League champions Sheikh Jamal proved in the opener why they are considered the top favourites for the season-opening title as they cruised past Feni with a convincing 4-1 win.
It took the Dhanmondi outfit 35 minutes to open their account courtesy a screamer from talismanic midfielder Mamunul Islam. Receiving a pass from Haitian forward Wedson Anselme, Mamunul unleashed a powerful left-footer from just outside the box giving Feni goalkeeper Bipu no chance.
Last season’s top scorer Emeka Darlington doubled the lead at the stroke of the first half. Following a cross from Gambian midfielder Landing Darboe from the right flank, Emeka’s initial headed effort was blocked by the Feni custodian but the Nigerian striker smashed home on the rebound.
Sohel Mia pulled one back for Feni in the 61st minute after a blunder from Sheikh Jamal keeper Shahidul Alam Sohel before Shakhawat Hossain Rony and Darboe netted one apiece in the 73rd and 82nd minute respectively to complete the scoreline.
Meanwhile in the day’s first match, a last-gasp goal by Guinean striker Ismael Bangoura earned Mohammedan a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Rahmatganj.
It was Ismael Bangoura’s debut for the Black and Whites in the top flight after spending last season with Team BJMC. The Guinean striker slammed the winner two minutes before the final whistle. Bangoura had previously set up the opening goal on a plate for Towhidul Alam Sabuj, which was later cancelled out by Nurul Absar.
Mohammedan began the game brightly as forward Sabuj put his side ahead with just 10 minutes into the clock. Collecting a Habibur Rahman Shohag free-kick, Bangoura slid the ball into the path of Sabuj, who tapped home from two yards.
Forward Absar equalised for Rahmatganj four minutes into the second half when his powerful header found the back of the net following a Jahid Hasan Dalim corner.
The Black and Whites put all their efforts for the winner with Sabuj and Bangoura creating most of the chances. The attacking duo were also responsible for some near misses.
However, it was Bangoura who sealed victory in the 88th minute when he slotted home past Rahmatganj goalkeeper Masum after receiving a superb through pass from midfielder Abu Sayed Jewel.
