East Bengal Durand Cup 2024: Indian Super League Unveils Exciting Quarterfinal Fixtures with Kolkata Set to Host Final Showdowns
East Bengal Durand Cup: The 2024 Durand Cup is entering its most thrilling phase as the Indian Super League (ISL) announces the quarterfinal fixtures, highlighting a series of high-stakes matches that promise to captivate football fans across the country. With Kolkata set to host the fourth quarterfinal and both semifinals, the tournament is gearing up for an exciting conclusion.
Quarterfinal Matchups and Venues
Following the abrupt cancellation of the highly anticipated group stage match between East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK), the ISL has officially revealed the quarterfinal fixtures. The match was called off due to security concerns amid protests in Kolkata related to a tragic incident involving a postgraduate medical student from RG Kar Hospital. The Kolkata Police had cited difficulties in providing adequate security for the derby clash.
Despite the group stage disruption, MBSG secured their place in the knockout rounds based on goal difference. They will face Punjab FC in the third quarterfinal at Jamshedpur’s JRD Tata Sports Complex on August 23, with kickoff set for 4 pm. Mohun Bagan Super Giant, having finished the group stage with 7 points and a +7 goal difference, will be looking to advance further in their bid to defend their title.
Detailed Quarterfinal Schedule
- Northeast United FC vs. Indian Army FT
Date & Time: August 21, 4:00 PM
Venue: SAI Stadium, Kokrajhar - East Bengal FC vs. Shillong Lajong FC
Date & Time: August 21, 7:00 PM
Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong - Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs. Punjab FC
Date & Time: August 23, 4:00 PM
Venue: JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur - Bengaluru FC vs. Kerala Blasters FC
Date & Time: August 23, 7:00 PM
Venue: Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
Path to the Semifinals
The quarterfinalists were determined based on their performance in the group stages, where all teams that qualified for the knockout rounds accumulated at least 7 points. The lineup includes Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Punjab FC, Army Red, Northeast United FC, and Shillong Lajong FC.
Semifinal and Final Schedule
The two semifinals are scheduled to take place on August 25 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata. The final will also be held at the same venue on August 31, promising an electrifying conclusion to this year’s tournament.
Looking Ahead: The Clash of Titans
As the quarterfinals approach, the matchups are set to deliver a blend of intense competition and high drama. With Kolkata hosting the crucial fourth quarterfinal and both semifinal matches, the city is poised to be the epicenter of football action in the coming days. Fans across the country will be eagerly watching as the remaining teams battle for a coveted place in the final, aiming to etch their names into the history of the Durand Cup.
