The Bangladesh Football League has officially been rebranded as the Petronas Bangladesh Football League, after United Group -- one of the country's largest industrial conglomerates -- secured the title sponsorship rights, succeeding Bashundhara Group.
"We signed the deal over two months ago," Fahad Karim, Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) vice-president and marketing committee chairman, told The Daily Star.
"But United Group took some time deciding which of their products would front the league, which is why the announcement was delayed," he added.
After a month-long break, the league resumes today with four fixtures, involving a high-voltage clash between archrivals Mohammedan Sporting Club and Abahani at the Shaheed Dhirendranath Datta Stadium in Cumilla.
Both teams have endured a poor start to the season, following a draw and a defeat against inferior oppositions. As a result, they sit near the bottom of the 10-team table.
The extended break has also left both sides short on preparation. Mohammedan, in particular, have been hamstrung by off-field uncertainty and financial strain. Their situation is so tight that the squad travelled to Cumilla by public transport yesterday rather than hiring a team bus.
Abahani -- though also facing financial limitations -- will have a slight advantage, with two foreign recruits available together for the first time this season. However, Mohammedan have recent record on their side, remaining unbeaten in the past five league meetings between the sides, with two wins and three draws.
"The match matters for three reasons," said Abahani coach Maruful Haque. "We haven't won yet, it's a derby between two traditional powerhouses, and we need to get ourselves back in the race."
Mohammedan coach Alfaz Ahmed acknowledged the challenges but remained hopeful. "Motivation may be low, but the boys will play for their own pride. We'll go there looking for a win, even though nothing has gone our way and the situation is very tough."
Since the league's inception in 2007, Abahani and Mohammedan have faced each other 34 times, with Abahani leading the head-to-head: 14 wins, 13 draws, and seven defeats.
In today's other fixtures, Arambagh KS host Bashundhara Kings in Manikganj, Fortis FC face Police FC at Dhaka's Kings Arena, and Brothers Union meet Fakirerpool Youngmen's Club in Munshiganj.