Dhaka, June 26 -- A last-minute goal by Afghan recruit Masih Saighani enabled Dhaka Abahani Limited to qualify for the knockout stage of the AFC Cup for the first time as Group E champions beating Minerva Punjab of India by 1-0 goal at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday afternoon.

When the match was heading for almost a draw, defender Masih Saighani stepped in to rescue Dhaka Abahani Ltd scoring the match-winner in the 3rd minute of the stoppage time (90+3 minute) amid huge relief for the Bangladesh champions.

With the feat, six-time Bangladesh Professional Football League champions and popular sky-blue Bangladesh outfit Abahani Limited created a history by reaching the next stage (Inter-Zonal play-off) of the A...