Five-time Bangladesh Premier League champions Bashundhara Kings returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over Fortis FC at the Kings Arena on Sunday. After being held 2-2 by PWD in their opening match, the star-studded side produced a much-improved performance to collect their first win of the season.
The Kings wasted no time making their mark. Within just 40 seconds of kick-off, Brazilian forward Dorielton fired home, registering one of the quickest goals in recent domestic football. The early strike put Fortis on the back foot, and though they pushed hard to find a response, Bashundhara went into the break with a narrow 1-0 lead.
Fifteen minutes into the second half, winger Faisal Ahmed Fahim doubled the advantage. Receiving a cross from the right, Fahim slotted the ball neatly into the net to make it 2-0. Fortis managed a late consolation when Okafor scored in added time, but it was too little, too late as the Kings held firm for all three points.
Fortis, who stunned reigning champions Mohammedan Sporting Club in their first-round match, had hoped to continue their dream start. However, the defeat saw them lose the chance to stay top after two rounds. With this win, Bashundhara Kings moved level on four points with Police FC, Rahmatganj, and PWD.
In another match, newly promoted PWD continued to impress. After earning a surprise 2-2 draw against Bashundhara in their debut, they claimed their first victory in the top flight with a 1-0 win over Arambagh KS. Akbir’s 22nd-minute goal proved decisive, sealing three valuable points for the newcomers.
The second round resumed after a 22-day break, but fans will now face another long wait. Bashundhara Kings are scheduled to travel to Kuwait for the AFC Challenge League, while Bangladesh will meet India in the AFC Qualifiers in Dhaka on 18 November.
Before league action returns, two Federation Cup Group A matches will take place next week, offering local football followers a short but welcome dose of competitive action.
