Bashundhara Kings’ journey in the AFC Challenge League has come to an end after suffering a 3-0 defeat against Al Ansar FC from Lebanon in Group B. This loss marks the Kings’ second consecutive defeat in the tournament.
Both teams had previously lost their opening matches, but Al Ansar managed to bounce back with goals from Aboubakar Akuki, Hichem Khalfallah, and Hebous. On the other hand, the Kings faced disappointment with two defeats in two matches.
The Kings showed promise at the beginning of the game, with Brazilian forward Dorielton Gomez coming close to scoring in the second minute, only to be denied by goalkeeper Nazih Assad. Despite their efforts, Al Ansar took the lead in the 43rd minute when Akuki netted a header from Mohammad’s set-piece.
Although Kings’ goalkeeper Mehedi Hasan Srabon saved a penalty in the second half, Khalfallah converted another spot-kick in the 73rd minute, extending Al Ansar’s lead to 2-0. Hebous secured the victory with a well-taken goal in stoppage time.
In their final group match, the Bangladeshi team will go up against Kuwait SC, while Al Ansar will face Al Seeb from Oman.