Late Saurav double sends Mohammedan into final

 
A dramatic stoppage-time winner from young forward Saurav Dewan propelled Mohammedan Sporting Club Dhaka into the final of the Federation Cup after a thrilling 2-1 win over Brothers Union at the Cumilla Stadium.

With the match seemingly drifting towards extra time, Saurav emerged as the hero in the dying moments, scoring both goals to carry the black-and-whites into the final after a one-season absence.

Mohammedan broke the deadlock in the 38th minute through a well-worked move down the right flank. Rahmat Mia's long throw was flicked on by Eli Keke before the ball reached Saurav Raju, who guided a header into the net to hand his side the lead before the interval.

Brothers Union returned after the break with renewed urgency and began to press aggressively in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 74th minute when experienced midfielder Jamal Bhuiyan curled home a free-kick to restore parity. It was Jamal's first goal of the season and briefly reignited hopes of a first Federation Cup final appearance for Brothers since 2005.

As tension gripped the stadium and extra time loomed large, Mohammedan earned a corner deep into injury time. Muzaffarov delivered the ball from the right, and after a failed clearance by a Brothers defender, a Mohammedan attacker cushioned the ball into Saurav's path. Showing remarkable composure beyond his years, the forward calmly slotted home the decisive goal to spark wild celebrations among the Mohammedan faithful.

The win sets up a mouthwatering final next Tuesday between Mohammedan and reigning powerhouse Bashundhara Kings.

For Mohammedan, a club steeped in tradition and silverware, the Federation Cup now offers a golden opportunity to salvage a difficult domestic season and once again stand beneath the bright lights of glory.