Muras United dominated early proceedings but were unable to find the back of the net as Dhaka Abahani held firm in a tense, goalless first half, largely thanks to goalkeeper Mitul Marma’s heroics.
From the opening whistle, Muras looked the more assured side. They controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and launched wave after wave of attack with their high-pressing style, allowing Abahani little time or space on the ball. The pressure was relentless as they sought to capitalise on gaps in the defence.
Abahani, however, gradually grew into the match, despite being pushed deep into their own half. Initially set up in a 4-3-3 mid-block, they were forced to adapt defensively, shifting to a more conservative 5-4-1 and at times 4-4-2, in an attempt to absorb the pressure.
Muras had several clear chances to take the lead. In the 17th minute, Souleymane Diabate’s low strike narrowly missed the far post. Just six minutes later, Al-Amin squandered a one-on-one opportunity after being played in by Hasan Murad. Yet time and again, it was Mitul Marma who stood tall—his sharp reflexes and commanding presence keeping Muras at bay.
Abahani managed to carve out chances of their own. In the 31st minute, a deflected Diabate effort fell kindly for Ibrahim, who failed to convert. The forward had another opportunity in the 40th, but poor decision-making let him down once again. Moments later, Morsalin tried his luck from distance, only to see his shot drift wide.
Despite the high tempo and multiple scoring chances, the first half closed with the scores level. Muras United may have dominated the ball, but it was Mitul Marma’s brilliance that ensured Dhaka Abahani went into the break without conceding.