Mohun Bagan vs East Bengal, Durand Cup 2024: Why was Kolkata Derby Cancelled? Will Torch Bearers Qualify for Knockout Stages?

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The highly anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal FC in the Durand Cup 2024 has been officially abandoned. The match, originally scheduled to take place on August 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, has been called off due to the current situation in the city.

In a statement released by the Durand Cup Organizing Committee reads, "Dear All, On behalf of the Durand Cup Organizing Committee, this is to regretfully inform you that the final Group A fixture between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal FC, scheduled to be played at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on August 18, 2024 at 7.00pm, stands abandoned."

The current situation in the city entails numerous protests happening around the city regarding the Kolkata rape-murder case. After the rape and murder of Doctor Moumita Debnath from RG Kar Hospital has created an uproar amongst the citizens who have taken to the streets to raise their voices for justice for the victim.

A significant number of Mohun Bagan and East Bengal supporters chose to raise their voices together in response to the current situation during the Kolkata derby. They made banners, and some even designed special jerseys featuring slogans related to the issue. Many fans from both teams opted to protest from the stands, with several considering wearing black attire.

The Kolkata derby is already a hot affair where both teams' supporters have a history of getting into fiery clashes amongst themselves. Hence, in the middle of such a situation throughout the city, it begged the question of whether the security during the match could be provided properly and it was cancelled with that in mind.

It was confirmed that the match will not be rescheduled. The points from the game are likely to be shared between the two teams. Additionally, fans who purchased tickets will be entitled to a full refund, with further details on the refund process to be communicated shortly.

This decision has left fans disappointed, as the Kolkata Derby is one of the, if not the most anticipated fixtures in Indian football. Reportedly, the cost of the already sold tickets will be fully refunded to the ticket holders. Official communication about the aforementioned refund will come soon.

If both teams share a point each, East Bengal will finish the group stage with 7 points in second place with less goal difference than first-placed Mohun Bagan who will also have the same points - 7. However, the Torch Bearers fans won't have to worry about anything as they will automatically progress to the knockout stages in this situation.