Why East Bengal and Mohun Bagan are playing Kolkata Derby in Lucknow on September 2?

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In a surprising turn of events, iconic football clubs Mohun Bagan and East Bengal are set to clash in a highly-anticipated Kolkata derby, this time in Lucknow. The charity match is scheduled to take place on September 2 at the KD Singh Babu Stadium.

Uttar Pradesh Sports Director R.P. Singh confirmed that preparations are in full swing, with the installation of floodlights and necessary stadium repairs nearing completion. The organizers expect an enthusiastic crowd of over 10,000 fans to witness this thrilling encounter.

The announcement comes in the wake of the cancellation of the last group stage match of the Durand Cup 2024, which was slated for August 18. This match was anticipated to attract a massive turnout of more than 60,000 fans, given that the outcome would have determined a spot in the quarter-finals.

However, citing security concerns due to the protests and unrest in Kolkata following the tragic rape and murder of an RG Kar Hospital doctor, the authorities called off the match. The security forces were stretched thin, and it was feared they wouldn't be able to provide adequate safety at the stadium.

Despite the official explanation, many fans expressed skepticism over the decision to cancel the match. Rival supporters from both clubs had united with plans to protest the handling of the case during the derby.

With special banners, jerseys, and t-shirts, they intended to use the match as a platform to demand justice for the victim. In the aftermath of the cancellation, hundreds of fans still gathered at the stadium at the scheduled match time, resulting in clashes with police.

Officers had to resort to batons, and several protestors were detained. AIFF President and BJP member Kalyan Chaubey, who was present during the protests, voiced his frustration at the state government's handling of the situation.

Chaubey even sent a letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging the return of the Durand Cup matches to Kolkata. However, it had already been announced that the semi-finals and final would be held at the Salt Lake Stadium in the city. While the charity match in Lucknow is set on September 2, it will be missing several key players from both teams, particularly Mohun Bagan.

Many players are currently with the Indian national football team as they prepare for the Intercontinental Cup 2024, which includes matches against Syria and Mauritius. Consequently, fans can expect the teams to field their second-team squads or players from the Calcutta Football League for the charity match.