Penalty drama sees Kings crowned Federation Cup champions

Bashundhara Kings held their nerve to win a dramatic Federation Cup final, edging Abahani 5–3 in a penalty shootout after the match resumed seven days later and remained unresolved through extra time.

The delayed decider resumed from where it had left off, but neither side could break the deadlock, forcing the game into penalties. Kings goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Shrabon emerged as the hero, saving one spot-kick and maintaining composure amid controversy.

Drama unfolded during Abahani's fourth penalty. Mirajul Islam's initial effort was saved by Shrabon, prompting wild celebrations as Kings thought they had secured the win. But referee Saimon Sani had already raised his flag for an infringement, much to the dismay of Kings' goalkeeping coach Nuruzzaman Nayan, who was shown a yellow card for protesting.

Mirajul retook the penalty and scored, but it only delayed the inevitable. Kings' Brazilian forward Daciel converted the decisive fifth kick, sealing victory and sparking renewed jubilation from the defending champions.

The result not only retained Kings' grip on the Federation Cup but also avenged their earlier defeat to Abahani in the qualifying round. In that match, Abahani had triumphed with ten men; this time, it was Kings who finished with ten and emerged victorious.

Kings coach Valery Tite had made two late substitutions before the shootout but stuck with Shrabon in goal. The young keeper justified that decision by saving Abahani's second penalty, taken by Nigerian striker Emeka, handing Kings an early edge.

Abahani converted three of their five kicks through Rafael, Mahadi Khan, and Mirajul, but the early miss placed them under pressure. In contrast, Kings were flawless. Jonathan, Morsalin, Topu Barman, and Insan all found the net before Daciel's clincher ensured that Abahani didn't get the chance to take their fifth penalty.

Thus concluded a tense and extended final, with Kings once again lifting the Federation Cup trophy.