Maruf strike earns BRAC first ABG University Cup victory

BRAC University finally got their ABG University Cup 2026 campaign up and running with a narrow 1-0 victory over the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) in a Group B encounter on Friday.

After suffering defeats in their opening two matches, BRAC returned to winning ways thanks to a second-half strike from Imtiaz Maruf at Bashundhara Kings Arena, ABG Sports City.

ULAB came close to taking the lead as early as the second minute, but a volley from one of their players sailed narrowly over the crossbar. BRAC responded with an opportunity of their own in the 10th minute, but Maruf failed to make proper contact with his effort from inside the box.

Both sides created further chances during the first half but lacked the finishing touch, leaving the scoreline goalless at the break.

The contest remained evenly balanced after the interval, with neither side able to find a breakthrough despite exchanging attacks.

However, Maruf finally broke the deadlock in the 40th minute. ULAB failed to clear their lines, allowing the forward to collect the ball inside the box following a gentle touch from a teammate. Maruf made no mistake, unleashing a powerful, curling right-footed effort into the net.

His decisive strike proved enough to secure all three points for BRAC, ending their two-match losing streak in the tournament.