The return of Uzbek midfielder Mozaffarov has provided a timely lift for Mohammedan Sporting Club, who have endured a difficult title defence in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League season. Last year’s champions have struggled for consistency and currently find themselves languishing in the lower half of the table, prompting concern among supporters and analysts alike.
Mozaffarov’s recent absence only compounded those worries. The experienced midfielder had travelled back to Uzbekistan due to his father’s sudden illness, leaving a noticeable void in Mohammedan’s midfield. His departure came at a critical juncture in the season, when the team was already grappling with inconsistent performances and a lack of cohesion in the centre of the park.
However, there is now renewed optimism at the club. Mozaffarov has returned to Dhaka and resumed full training with the squad. His recovery from personal distress and swift reintegration into the team setup have been welcomed by both fans and coaching staff. Reports indicate that his father’s condition has stabilised, allowing the player to return to professional duties with peace of mind.
Having spent nearly five years with Mohammedan, Mozaffarov has established himself as a pivotal figure in the team’s structure. Known for his composure, vision, and ability to dictate tempo, he has consistently delivered dependable performances in midfield. His presence has often been instrumental in Mohammedan’s successes in recent seasons, and he is widely regarded as a symbol of reliability on the pitch.
The timing of his return is particularly significant as the league prepares to enter its decisive second phase. The fixture list for the next round has now been confirmed, with matches set to commence on 6 March. Four fixtures will take place on the opening day. In Cumilla, Abahani Limited Dhaka are scheduled to face Rahmatganj MFS in the afternoon kickoff. Mohammedan will play their next match the following day at the same venue, taking on Fortis FC in what is expected to be a challenging encounter.
A glance at the current standings underlines the urgency of Mohammedan’s situation. With only two wins from nine matches, they have accumulated just 10 points and sit sixth in a ten-team table. In contrast, both Bashundhara Kings and Fortis FC lead the standings jointly with 18 points, while Abahani Limited occupy fifth place with 13 points.
Below is a snapshot of the current league table among key teams:
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bashundhara Kings | 9 | — | 18 |
| Fortis FC | 9 | — | 18 |
| Abahani Limited Dhaka | 9 | — | 13 |
| Mohammedan Sporting Club | 9 | 2 | 10 |
As the competition intensifies, Mohammedan will be eager to climb the table and reassert themselves as title contenders. The return of Mozaffarov could prove pivotal in that quest, offering both stability and leadership in midfield. With the second phase approaching, his influence may well determine whether the club can revive their campaign and mount a credible defence of their crown.