CFL 2024: All You Need to Know About Calcutta Football League's New Season - Groups, Format, Venue, Schedule

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The Calcutta Football League or CFL 2024 is set to be an exciting season, continuing its legacy as the oldest football league in Asia. Organised by the Indian Football Association (IFA), the CFL brings together a myriad of teams from across West Bengal, showcasing the vibrant football culture of the region.

This year's competition promises thrilling encounters, particularly with traditional rivals East Bengal and Mohun Bagan in the same group.

When Does CFL 2024 Start?

The CFL 2024 Premier Division kicks off on June 25, with the defending champions Mohammedan Sporting Club playing the opening match. The detailed fixtures, including the highly anticipated East Bengal vs Mohun Bagan derby, are yet to be announced.

The Groups and Major Teams

This season, the CFL Premier Division features 26 teams divided into two groups:

Group A:

• Mohammedan SC
• Diamond Harbor FC
• Khidirpur
• BSS Sporting Club
• Kalighat Milan Sangh
• Erian Club
• Army Red
• New Alipore Suruchi Sangh
• Southern Samiti
• Messrs Club
• United Sports Club
• Uadi AC
• Pathchakra

Group B:

• East Bengal
• Mohun Bagan
• Bhavanipur
• Peerless
• Customs
• Police AC
• Rainbow AC
• Kalighat Sports Lovers Association
• Railway FC
• George Telegraph
• Calcutta Police Club
• Eastern Railway
• Tollygunge Pioneers

Format

The 2024 CFL Premier Division merges the top two tiers, Premier A and B, into a single expanded 26-team competition. Each group consists of 13 teams, playing each other once. The top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six round, where they compete for the championship with points carried over from the group stage.

The bottom four teams from each group enter the relegation round. Following the rule from last season, CFL 2024 will not feature any foreign players, adhering to the rules set by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Also reports have suggested that seven West Bengal players and four players from other states are to be allowed in the playing XI of each team.

Venues

The matches will be held across various venues in Kolkata. Complete list of venues and schedule are to be announced soon.

History

The Calcutta Football League, established in 1898, is not only the oldest football league in Asia but also one of the oldest football competitions globally. Conducted by the Indian Football Association (IFA), the league features more than 160 Kolkata-based clubs and units. With a seven-tier pyramid system, the CFL sees over 8,500 directly registered players participating annually, making it one of the largest football leagues in India.

East Bengal and Mohun Bagan

East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, two of India's most storied football clubs, add a significant level of excitement to the CFL. Both clubs have been drawn into the same group this year, which has already sparked anticipation among their passionate supporters. Despite their senior teams focusing on the upcoming Durand Cup and ISL, their reserve teams will ensure competitive performances in the CFL.

Who Are the Defending Champions?

Mohammedan Sporting Club are the defending champions, having won the title last season by finishing two points ahead of East Bengal in the Super Six rounds. This victory marked their third consecutive championship, bringing their total number of titles to 14. It remains unclear whether they will field their senior team or reserve team this year.

Who Is the Most Successful Team in the CFL?

East Bengal holds the record as the most successful team in the history of the CFL, with 39 titles to their name. However, they haven't won the league since 2017. Mohun Bagan is the second most successful team, boasting 30 CFL titles, with their last victory coming in 2018.

Who Was the Top Goalscorer Last Season?

Mohammedan Sporting striker David Lalhlansanga emerged as the top goalscorer last season, netting 21 goals and earning the golden boot. His outstanding performance also earned him a place in the national team.

Improving Quality of Referees

In preparation for the CFL 2024, the IFA has organized a four-day workshop aimed at improving the quality of refereeing. Conducted by former FIFA Referee Instructor Ishiyama Nobru from Japan, this workshop is a significant step towards ensuring fair and high-standard officiating in the league.