Defending champions Dhaka Abahani Limited advanced to the final of the Walton Federation Cup Football Tournament eliminating former champions Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club 1-0 in the 2nd semifinal at the floodlight Bangabandhu National Stadium here on Saturday.
They will play Chittagong Abahani in all Abahani final on Tuesday at 7:30 pm at the same venue.
In the day’s semis, Nigerian substitute striker Emeka Darlington scored the match-winner for Abahani Limited in the 66th minute by a push from small box after Sheikh Jamal custodian Samiul Islam saved two repeated attempts of Sohel Rana and Nabib Newaj Jibon (1-0). Later, Emeka wasa adjudged man of the match,
Earlier in the 53rde minute, striker Jibon managed a good chance to score, off a Waly Faisal pass, but his shot narrowly went outside.
In the 38th minute of the 2nd half, Jibon again came close score but failed to beat opponent custodian at his mercy. In the following minute Emeka spoiled another chance as he failed to beat opponent defender from D box.
The popular sky-blue Dhanmondi outfit Abahani Ltd reached semifinal with unbeaten run beating Brothers Union by 2-1 goals in the quarterfinal. In the group matches, Abahani Limited beat Muktijoddha Sangsad KC 1-0 and played to a 1-1 draw with newcomers Saif Sporting Club.
Abahani Limited : Shahedul, Nasiruddin, Waly Faisal, Rayhan, Samad Yussif, Emon Mahmud, Sohel Rana, Landing (Emeka), Rubel Miah, Mamun Mia and Nabib Newaj Jobon.
Sheikh Jamal DC: Samiul, Alauddin, Kesto, Yeasin, Anisur, Dedarul, Ali Hossain, Faruk, Javed, Momodou and Rapheal.
