Bashundhara Kings claim Challenge Cup with stunning comeback against Mohammedan

Bashundhara Kings proved their dominance in the inaugural Challenge Cup, recovering from an early setback to defeat Mohammedan 3-1 in a thrilling final.

On a chilly Friday evening, Mohammedan started brightly and took an early lead in the seventh minute.

Emmanuel Sunday delivered a perfect cross for Soleymane Diabate, whose header found the back of the net.

The early goal sparked excitement within the Mohammedan camp, and they held their ground against Bashundhara's attacking threats, playing a compact defensive game and relying on counter-attacks.

Bashundhara, despite dominating possession, failed to capitalise on their chances in the first half. In the 12th minute, Eze's header from Jonathan's corner just missed the target, and later in the 24th minute, Mohammedan nearly doubled their lead but Arif's attempt from Rahim Uddin's cross was off the mark.

At the other end, Bashundhara's Miguel had a shot saved in the 31st minute, leaving the scoreline unchanged at the break.

The second half saw Bashundhara push forward relentlessly. The breakthrough came in the 73rd minute when Topu Barman slotted home Miguel's corner with a calm left-foot finish to level the score at 1-1.

Bashundhara soon turned the tide, taking the lead in the 80th minute. Miguel's cross found Fahim, who expertly finished, giving the Kings a 2-1 advantage. In added time, Miguel sealed the victory with a brilliant solo effort, evading Dipu and placing the ball into the net for 3-1.

Bashundhara's triumph marked the beginning of their celebrations, while Mohammedan's dream of lifting the Challenge Cup was dashed in the dying moments.