Ctg Abahani storm into Independence Cup Football final

Defending champions Chittagong Abahani Ltd reached the final of the 12-team Independence Cup Football Tournament eliminating Rahmatganj Muslim Friends Society by 1-0 goal in the 2nd semifinal at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in the city on Tuesday, reports UNB.

They will play the title-deciding match against first-ever finalist Arambagh Krira Sangha on Saturday (February 10) at the same venue.

Striker Sakhawat Hossain Rony scored the match-winner for Chittagong Abahani.

Rahmatganj defender Mozammel Hossain Nira committed a handball in the danger zone while trying to clear the ball in the goal mouth during an attempt of Abahani defender Sushanto Tripura after slipping from goalie Razib and referee Sujit Benarjee Chandan awarded penalty in favour of Ctg Abahani.

Abahani goalkeeper Ashraf Islam Rana saved his side in the 75th minute denying Rahmatganj substitute midfielder Elias a penalty.

Abahani midfielder Sohel Rana fouled onrushing Shamim Reza inside the danger zone in the 72nd minute and the referee awarded a penalty in favour of Rahmatganj MFS.

Rahmatganj forward Helal missed an opportunity in the 11th minute as his right-footed shot from top of the six-yard box went out edging over the crosspiece.

Abahani created a chance in the 39th minute when Rony took a shot from the box to fire the net off a free-kick from midfielder Abdullah, but the referee blew his whistle for an offside.

Rahmatganj were reduced to a 10-man side in the 78th minute as their defender Saddam Hossain Anny got marching order after receiving 2nd yellow card in the match.

Rahmatganj kept control over the ball for most of the time of the match and created some fruitless opportunities.