With their third consecutive win in the competition, the Dhaka giants have all but confirmed their place in the six-team second phase of the final round to be held in Dhaka.

Abahani will play their next match in Khulna against Chittagong Mohammedan and the last group A fixture against holders Muktijoddha Krira Chakra at Chittagong.

The Sky Blues had struggled to find the mark in the first half against the nondescript side from Chand-pur. But Rakib, who had missed most of the last season due to injury, brought them relief three minutes into the second session when he unleashed a diagonal right-footer on the volley from an Abdullah Parvez cross leaving opposing custodian Kamal Hossain rooted to the ground.

Abahani had numerous opportunities to score. But an inspired Kamal fisted away a Siraji right-footer from outside the box in the 21st minute and defender Al-Amin saved a Colly Barnes shot from the goal-line a minute later. Then Colly Barnes and Joy's headers hit the crosspiece from Masud Rana corners.

Najirpara defender Nahid clea-red a Barnes attempt going towards the goal when the Nigerian striker placed the ball over the advancing goalkeeper.

Najirpara had only one shot in entire match on goal.

Yellow cards: Colly Barnes (Aba-hani), Kamal, Al-Amin, And Mehedi (Najirpara).

TEAMS
Abahani: Nizam, Siraji, Hasan, Shawkat, Masud Rana, Joy, Ujjal, Parvez, Rakib, Colly Barnes and Khokon.

Najirpara KC: Kamal, Nahid, Shahidul, Delwar Hossen, Mizanur Rahman, Jashim Uddin, Kamruzza-man, Sohel Rana, Sayed Hossain, Mehedi ( Mamun) and Mohsin.

Referee: Tayeb Hasan.