The Durand Cup Group stage match between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, scheduled on August 18, at the Salt Lake Stadium has been abandoned due to potential security issues.
With the city witnessing protests around the rape and murder of Dr. Moumita Debnath at RG Kar Medical College, the city police has reportedly cited security as a major challenge on Sunday.
According to sources, there are also talks that the tournament might be shifted to Jamshedpur.
“There are multiple options that the tournament committee is looking at. Jamshedpur is an option but there might be logistical issues. But nothing is confirmed at the moment and we are looking for the best solution,” a source told Sportstar on the condition of anonymity.
While Mohun Bagan has already qualified for the quarterfinals of the tournament, a point from this abandoned derby will leave East Bengal in a fix. For the final-eight, six group-toppers and two best second-placed teams will make the cut.
The Red-and-Gold Brigade is currently second in the list of second-placed teams, but Goa, which plays Shillong Lajong at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Saturday, might surpass the Kolkata-based outfit to make the cut for the knockouts.
