Champions Kings receive BPL trophy after Police draw

Bashundhara Kings received their fifth title of Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) during a trophy handover ceremony following a 2-2 draw against Police Football Club in their 16th match of the ongoing ABG Bashundhara BPL 2023-24 on Saturday. 

Youth and Sports Minister Nazmul Hassan Papon handed over the trophy to Kings’ Spanish head coach Oscar Bruzon and Brazilian skipper Robson Robinho as the chief guest of the ceremony at Kings’ home – Bashundhara Kings Arena here. 

BFF Vice-president, Professional League Management Committee (PLMC) Chairman and Bashundhara Kings President Imrul Hassan and other BFF officials, members were also present there. 

Kings earlier confirmed their record-extending fifth league title with three matches left last after beating Mohammedan Sporting Club Ltd by 2-1 goals at the Rafiq Uddin Bhuiyan Stadium in Mymensingh on last Saturday (11 May). 

The day’s draw against Police FC will make no impact on the leaderboard. 

Even Kings’ remaining two BPL matches against Rahmatganj Muslim Friends Society and Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra Ltd, scheduled to be held on 24, and 29 May, will make no impact on the standings. 

At Kings Arena, Nigerian forward Mfon Sunday Udoh took the lead for hosts in the 44th minute.

But Police forward Mahdi Yusuf Khan leveled the margin in the 50th minute while his teammate Venezuelan forward Edward Enrique Morillo Jimenez doubled the margin. 

Kings got a big relief when Brazilian forward Dorielton Nascimento scored the equalizer in the 71st minute and helped to avoid the defeat. 

“We’ve already won two titles and there is a chance to win another (Federation Cup). We are going to win the treble (domestic) for the first time, there is a surprise for the team but it will be disclosed when they will win the treble,” Kings President Imrul told the reporters after the ceremony. 

“We have tough matches in the AFC Challenge Cup. We are now taking preparations for it. I hope I can do something good in the international arena this time,” he further added. 

Earlier this day, Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club Ltd shared points with Fortis Football Club as their match ended at a goalless draw at the Muktijuddho Sriti Stadium in Rajshahi.