SPORTS REPORTER

Defending champions Mohammedan Sporting Club endured a disappointing start to their Bangladesh Football League campaign, suffering a 2–0 defeat against Fortis at the Bashundhara Kings Arena on Saturday.

Gambian striker Pa Omar Babou emerged as the hero for Fortis, scoring both goals in the second half.

The first half remained goalless and the deadlock was broken in the 61st minute when substitute Sajed Hasan Jummon intercepted the ball and threaded a precise pass to Babou, who unleashed a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box beyond goalkeeper Sujon Hossain.

Babou doubled his tally in the 79th minute, finishing a counter-attack he had started, exchanging passes with Riaz Sagor before volleying home.

Elsewhere, Bashundhara Kings were held 2–2 by debutants PWD after surrendering a 2–0 halftime lead, while Bangladesh Police edged Brothers Union 1–0 thanks to a 43rd-minute strike from Brazilian forward Paulo Henrique.

The first round concluded with several surprising results, and the competition now pauses due to national team commitments for the Asian Cup qualifiers and Kings’ participation in the AFC Challenge League.