DHAKA, Aug 12, 2025 (BSS)- Abahani Limited conceded a 2-0 goal defeat to FC Muras United of Kyrgyzstan in the preliminary round of AFC Challenge League held at National Stadium today (Tuesday).    

Goals from midfielder Atai Dzhumashev in 48th and 92nd minutes ensured Muras United’s victory after the first half ended in goalless draw.  

Though Muras United had shown flashes of attacking flair in beginning of the match but they found it difficult to carve open the Abahani’s  defence. When they did manage to get shots off, goalkeeper Mitul Marma was equal to the task foiling the attempts.

Muras went attack early in the 6th minute when forward Yogulov’s shot from the close range narrowly missed the target. Three minutes later forward Codjo Chabel took a powerful shot from the danger zone but Mitul Marma fisted the ball for safety.

Abahani Limited got the first scoring chance following a counter attack in the 17th minute. Malian forward Soleymene Diabate darting down after taking the pass from mid field , took a shot from the top of the box but the ball went harmlessly over the cross bar. 

In the next minute, Muras again came close of scoring when Codjo Chabel angular shot from the D-box off Zhaparov close pass was brilliantly fisted by Abahani custodian Mitul Marma at a cost of corner.

Abahani responded immediately launching their second attack in the 22nd minute. Al Amin, after taking a pass from midfield ran down inside the zone but the opponent defender blocked the attempt frustrating the Abahani’s fans in the big bowl.

Abahani again came close of scoring in the 31st minute but forward Mohammad Ibrahim’s left footer shot off close pass from Diabate went beside the side bar.

The heavens opened up in the second half for Muras United. Midfielder Dzhumashev finally broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, Andriy Batsula floated a pass from outside the box and Dzhumashev sent the ball to the net with a perfect header giving his side a much-awaited lead.  

The second goal came for Muras in the injury time of the second half. Darting down the left right wing, Dzhumashev sealed the victory with a lofted shot giving no chance to Mitul Marma under the bar.

Muras were tactically astute in the second half, not allowing the Abahani time or space to mount a comeback. Anticipating their tendency to push hard after conceding the goal, Muras closed down passing lanes and nullified any potential threat. 

Despite a few late attempts by the Abahani, Muras backline remained resolute wrapping up their victory.

With this defeat, Abahani eliminated from qualifying stage while Muras United moved to the final round as new team in the inaugural appearance.