DIU, AIUB eye maiden ABG University Cup football crown

Two unbeaten sides, five matches each and one coveted trophy. Daffodil International University (DIU) and American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) are gearing up for a thrilling showdown in the ABG University Cup football final at Bashundhara Kings Arena, ABG Sports City, on Tuesday.
The much-anticipated final kicks off at 6:30pm Bangladesh time, with both universities aiming to cap their unbeaten campaigns by lifting the inaugural title.
DIU booked their place in the final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Sonargaon University in Monday's first semi-final, extending their unbeaten run to five matches.
After a goalless first half, DIU broke the deadlock in the 60th minute through their foreign student Saliso. Sonargaon pushed hard for an equaliser but failed to find a breakthrough. Juel then converted a penalty in the final minute to seal DIU's victory.
AIUB, meanwhile, secured their final berth after overcoming Fareast International University in a dramatic penalty shootout in the second semi-final. The match ended 1-1 in regulation time before AIUB prevailed 3-1 in the tie-breaker.

AIUB goalkeeper Mehedi proved decisive, making crucial saves in the shootout to earn the Player of the Match award. Bangladesh men's national team head coach Thomas Dooley and former Bangladesh footballer Alamgir Hasan presented him with the prize.
Both finalists have played five matches without tasting defeat. With their unbeaten records at stake and the championship within reach, Tuesday's final promises an intriguing battle for university football supremacy.
Organised under the initiative of Anvir Bashundhara Group (ABG) Chairman Sayem Sobhan Anvir, the ABG University Cup features university teams competing in football and cricket, with the aim of promoting competitive sports and nurturing young talent.