East Bengal Durand Cup 2024: Quarterfinals Moved Away from Kolkata – Full Fixtures and Details Revealed

East Bengal Durand Cup: The excitement around the 2024 Durand Cup continues to build as the Indian Super League (ISL) unveils the quarterfinal fixtures, with significant changes in venue due to recent security concerns in Kolkata. Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming clashes and the impact of recent developments on this prestigious tournament.

Security Concerns Lead to Venue Changes

In a surprising turn of events, the highly anticipated Kolkata Derby between East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) was abandoned due to security issues. The decision followed widespread protests in Kolkata over the tragic alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor, which has led to heightened concerns about crowd safety. The organizers decided to relocate the quarterfinal fixtures involving these two teams to ensure a secure environment for the matches.

Despite the cancellation of the derby, both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan were awarded a point each, with Mohun Bagan emerging as group A toppers. They have been drawn against Punjab FC in the third quarterfinal, set to take place at Jamshedpur’s JRD Tata Sports Complex. East Bengal, qualifying as one of the two best second-placed teams, will face Shillong Lajong FC in the second quarterfinal, which will now be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

Quarterfinal Fixtures and Venues

The fixtures for the quarterfinals have been rescheduled as follows:

1. August 21:
   • Northeast United FC vs. Indian Army FT
     Venue: SAI Stadium, Kokrajhar
     Time: 4:00 PM
   • Shillong Lajong FC vs. East Bengal FC
     Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong
     Time: 7:00 PM
2. August 23:
   • Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs. Punjab FC
     Venue: JRD Tata Sports Complex, Jamshedpur
     Time: 4:00 PM
   • Bengaluru FC vs. Kerala Blasters FC
     Venue: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
     Time: 7:00 PM

The Impact of Venue Changes

The decision to hold the quarterfinal matches outside Kolkata reflects the organizers’ efforts to maintain safety while still ensuring that the tournament progresses smoothly. With Bengaluru FC and Kerala Blasters FC having relatively smaller fan bases in Kolkata, the organizers opted to retain at least one game at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium to minimize disruption.

Potential for a Kolkata Derby in the Final

As the tournament progresses, there remains a possibility of a Kolkata Derby clash in the final. With both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan positioned on opposite ends of the draw, a potential final match between these arch-rivals would be a fitting climax to the tournament. However, the venue for the semifinals and final has yet to be confirmed, with speculation suggesting that the Salt Lake Stadium may still host these crucial matches.

Looking Forward

The quarterfinals promise to deliver high drama and intense competition as the top teams battle for a place in the semifinals. Fans can expect thrilling encounters as the best teams from across the country vie for the prestigious Durand Cup trophy. With Kolkata’s role in the tournament evolving and new challenges arising, the 2024 Durand Cup is set to be a memorable edition of this historic competition.