Bashundhara Kings collected another trophy for their cabinet when they won ABG Bashundhara Federation Cup 2023-24 beating last year’s champions Mohammedan Sporting Club Ltd by 2-1 goals in the nail-biting final at the crowded Rafiq Uddin Bhuiyan Stadium in Mymensingh on Wednesday.

But the day's achievement was something different for Kings as it fulfilled their dream of winning a domestic treble. Imrul Hassan, the club president, termed it as ‘exceptional and satisfying’ as the treble has been elusive for his side for the last six years.

“We have won many trophies in the last six years. We won a total of 10 trophies so far. Even though we have won doubles a few times, the treble was elusive. Winning the treble is exceptional and satisfying for a new team like us. It added another dimension to our joy,” Imrul told the reporters after the match.

Imrul, who is also the Bangladesh Football Federation vice president and BFF’s Professional League Management Committee (PLMC) chairman, further added that they failed to achieve their target on the international stage, but they will continue their efforts in the coming days.

“We’ve won many domestic competitions, but could not achieve our target at the international level. We will continue their efforts in the coming days. There will be some changes in the next season … both locals and foreigners. I think the team will be stronger next season,” he added.

Meanwhile, Kings Spanish head coach Oscar Bruzon termed the treble win as ‘something historical’.  

“Our coaching staff was determined and our management always put trust in us and for players, they are the main actors... yes it is something historical,” said Bruzon.
Substitute midfielder Jahid Hossen stole the show scoring a match-winner for Kings in the added time of first extra time and he thanked senior campaigner Topu Barman for allowing him to get into the d-box during the corner kick.

“It was my first goal in my career and I’m really satisfied with it. I requested Topu (Barman) da to permit me to go to the d-box so that I could strike the ball when it came towards me. He finally allowed me and I did it,” said Jahid.
Meanwhile, Mohammedan head coach Alfaz Ahmed said that a team needs a bit of luck to become champions.

Mohammedan under Alfaz had been outstanding throughout the season but they failed to bag a trophy after they lost to Kings by 1-2 goals in the final of the Federation Cup 2023-24 on Wednesday.
Earlier, they lost the final of the Independence Cup to the same team while finishing second in the Bangladesh Premier League.

“I think there was a problem in defending and the players could not take the pressure of a big match but I think Mohammedan played better football today. I think you need a bit of luck to become champions. I am happy that the players gave their best,” he said after the match.