Bashundhara Kings started their attempt to recapture the Federation Cup championship with a hard-earned 1-0 victory against Fortis FC today.
Brazilian forward Dorielton Gomes’ 11th-minute goal at Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni Stadium in Gopalganj clinched the Group C match.
Oscar Bruzon, the Spanish coach, made five changes to the team that beat Brothers Union 2-0 in their first Bangladesh Premier League match, enabling first-choice goalkeeper Anisur Rahman Zico to play in his first domestic match after his ban was lifted.
Kings used just three foreign players in a game in which both sides had a couple good opportunities on each side of the break. Ultimately, Zico’s performance was critical in the Kings escaping the field unhurt.
Meanwhile, Rahmatganj MFS came from behind twice to draw 2-2 with Bangladesh Police FC at Munshiganj, after losing 2-1 to the same opponents in the Independence Cup semifinals.
Police FC grabbed an early lead with to striker Shahed Mia, but Ghanaian Samuel Mensah Konney equalized with a close-range header in the 41st minute at Birshreshtha Shaheed Flight Lt Matiur Rahman Stadium.
In the second half, Edis Garcia scored a penalty after Mohammad Tarek fouled Mateo Palacios in the 68th minute, but the advantage lasted just nine minutes as Ghanaian Ernest Boateng converted from the spot in the 77th minute after replacement Rasel Hossain pulled down Konney inside the area.