Bashundhara Kings retained their grip on the Federation Cup title after edging long-time rivals Abahani Limited 5–3 in a dramatic penalty shootout, following a goalless stalemate that resumed a full week after the original match was suspended.
The final, halted mid-game seven days prior due to unforeseen circumstances, resumed from the exact point it had been left — but even after extra time, the two sides remained deadlocked, setting the stage for a tense conclusion from the penalty spot.
Kings goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Shrabon emerged as the hero, saving one penalty and keeping his cool amidst a flurry of late drama. The defining moment came during Abahani’s fourth spot-kick. Mirajul Islam’s initial attempt was kept out by Shrabon, sparking premature celebrations from the Kings’ camp. However, referee Saimon Sani had already flagged for encroachment, a decision that infuriated Kings’ goalkeeping coach Nuruzzaman Nayan, who was promptly cautioned for his protests.
Mirajul was allowed to retake the kick, which he duly converted, but it only delayed the inevitable. Moments later, Kings’ Brazilian forward Daciel stepped up and coolly slotted home the decisive penalty to seal a 5–3 win and spark jubilant celebrations among the reigning champions.
The triumph not only secured back-to-back Federation Cup titles for the Kings but also served as a measure of revenge, having been beaten by Abahani in the earlier qualifying round — a match the latter won with ten men. Fittingly, it was Kings who finished this final with ten men, yet it was they who prevailed.
Kings head coach Valery Tite made two late substitutions before the shootout but placed his trust in young keeper Shrabon to remain between the posts. That faith was vindicated when the shot-stopper saved Abahani’s second penalty, taken by Nigerian striker Emeka Ogbugh, giving the Kings an early advantage.
Abahani managed to convert three of their four taken penalties — through Rafael Augusto, Mahadi Khan and Mirajul — but the earlier miss proved costly. In contrast, the Kings were flawless. Jonathan, Morsalin, Topu Barman, and Insan all converted with confidence, setting the stage for Daciel to deliver the final blow.
So concluded a final that spanned over a week and was defined by high drama, controversy and resilience — with Bashundhara Kings once again emerging as Bangladesh’s cup kings.