Defending champions Islamabad United scored two late goals to hold strong Karachi Energy to a 2-2 draw in their opening match of the Super Football League which commenced here in Karachi at the Peoples Stadium on Friday night.

In front of a thin crowd, the last edition’s runners-up Karachi Energy took the initiative in the 20th minute through international striker Shakir Lashari who dribbled past a row of defenders and at the end nestled it cleverly into the far post. Muhammad Essa-led Karachi Energy kept tight control and midfielder Abdul Aziz took their lead to 2-0 with a piercing drive from 21 yards in the 41st minute.
After the breather, Islamabad United landed two goals inside twenty minutes to level the tie 2-2. Karachi Energy conceded an own goal when Islamabad United midfielder Tauseef’s away kick deflected off their defender Akber Ali into their own net in the 59th minute. In the 79th minute defender Muhammad Ramzan ensured a crucial point for Islamabad United when he converted a controversial penalty.
“The early twin blows jolted us badly, but after half time, the team bounced back and made a nice finish. With the output, we got a vital point which will help us in the rest of the tournament,” Islamabad United coach Sajjad Mehmood told ‘The News’.
The five-team event was inaugurated in formal style with national anthem and march-past of the teams. Quetta Zorawar were set to face Lahore Lajpaals at the same venue late last night.

This Match Report was published in The News