Abahani beat Sheikh Jamal to defend Bangladesh Premier League crown

Nasiruddin Chowdhury headed home from Sohel Rana’s cross to take the defending champions ahead on the 23rd minute of the first half at the Bangabandhu National Stadium on Friday.    

Nigerian Sunday Chizoba confirmed Abahani’s victory with a shot in the extra time, leading the supporters to pour onto the pitch to celebrate their sixth BPL title.

Dhaka Abahani confirmed the title with 51 points from 16 victories and three draws in 21 matches and will face Chittagong Abahani on Thursday.

Sheikh Jamal, just behind Dhaka Abahani with 47 points, will play Farashganj Sporting Club on the same day.

Friday’s match between Abahani and Sheikh Jamal turned a final as Abahani were only a win away from the title with 48 points while Sheikh Jamal needed a victory to pull level with the defending champions.    

In the first leg, the two teams shared points in a 1-1 draw.

Earlier on Friday, Brothers Union beat Farashganj 1-0.