AFC Cup: A closer look at Mohun Bagan SG’s opponents Abahani Limited Dhaka

It’s the last hurdle for Mohun Bagan Super Giant in AFC Cup 2023-24 qualifiers as the Mariners look to reach the continental competition for a third season running. The Indian Super League (ISL) Cup Winners will face Bangladesh side Abahani Limited Dhaka in the south zone playoff clash, with a place in the AFC Cup 2023-24 group stage guaranteed for the winning team.

While Mohun Bagan SG will be favourites for the clash, Abahani Limited Dhaka will be aiming to cause an upset. They are the most successful team in the Bangladesh Premier League and have qualified for the AFC Cup group stages on three occasions previously.

As Abahani Limited Dhaka look to qualify for the group stages of the continental competition after four years, here are few things to note about them.

History

Abahani Limited Dhaka are one of the most renowned and successful teams in Bangladesh. The club was established in 1972 as Abahani Kira Chakra before being renamed as Abahani Limited Dhaka 17 years later.

They are the most successful team in the Bangladesh Premier League, the top division in the country, winning a record of six titles. They have also won tournaments in India such as the Sait Nagjee Tournament, the Charms Cup and the Bordoloi Trophy.

During the 2019 edition of the AFC Cup, Abahani Dhaka made history by becoming the first side from Bangladesh to advance to the knockout stages of the competition. They finished top of their group that year, ahead of teams like Chennaiyin FC and Minerva Punjab FC.

Head to Head

The two sides have faced each other on three occasions so far, with all their meetings taking place in the AFC Cup. The Mariners have triumphed in two clashes so far with the other one ending in a draw. Mohun Bagan SG and Abahani Limited Dhaka first faced each other in the group stages of the AFC Cup during the 2017 edition, with the Mariners recording a 3-1 comeback victory at home.

Both sides couldn’t make it to the inter-zone play-off semi-finals, but Mohun Bagan managed to hold the Bangladesh side to a draw in the reverse fixture. The two sides recently met each other last year during the Preliminary Round Two clash of the AFC Cup 2022 qualifiers. The Mariners rode on a David Williams hat-trick at home and earned a comprehensive 3-1 win at home.

Form Guide

Last 5 Matches - LWWLW

Mohun Bagan SG have witnessed a positive start to the 2023-24 football season.

Juan Ferrando’s side have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the ongoing Durand Cup after two solid wins and a defeat, which came in the Kolkata Derby against East Bengal FC.

In their latest fixture, the Mariners beat Nepal’s Machhindra FC in their Round Two match of the AFC Cup 2023-24 qualifiers, setting up a south zone playoff clash with Abahani Limited Dhaka.

Last 5 Matches - LWLWW

Abahani Limited Dhaka will be eager to continue their winning run, having finished the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2022-23 season with a victory followed by a win against Maldivian side Club Eagles FC in the AFC Cup 2023-24 qualifiers. Their last defeat came against BPL champions Bashundhara Kings in July as Abahani Limited Dhaka finished second in the league stage.

Key players

Cornelius Stewart

Stewart, one of Abahani Limited Dhaka’s newest signings on loan, is the team’s biggest threat in attack. The 31-year-old brings with him tons of experience, having plied his trade in Finland and America besides playing for clubs in Asia. Stewart possesses a strong physical presence and can hurt teams with his pace and aerial threat.

He was also on the scoresheet during his side’s recent victory over Club Eagles. Mohun Bagan’s defenders will have to stay on their toes throughout the game and ensure that Stewart stays quiet in front of goal.

Foysal Ahmed Sahim

One of the most exciting talents in Bangladesh, Sahim is a talented winger capable of scoring goals and providing assists. Capable of playing as a winger or a forward, the 21-year-old is also part of the Bangladesh football team.

Having signed for Abahani Limited Dhaka ahead of the 2022-23 season, Sahim registered seven goals and two assists in his first season with the club. The youngster continues to remain an important player for head coach Mario Lemos and has been playing regularly in the starting eleven.