Introduction
Mohun Bagan Super Giant, one of India’s top football clubs, has pulled out of the AFC Champions League 2 (ACL 2) after refusing to travel to Iran for a match against Tractor FC. The club’s decision was driven by safety concerns amid unrest in Iran.
Why Mohun Bagan Refused to Travel
Mohun Bagan prioritized player safety by canceling their trip to Iran for the October 2, 2024, match. Iran was dealing with political tension following the death of a key military figure, and the country had declared a state of mourning.
The club’s 35 registered players, including seven international players, expressed discomfort about traveling to Iran. Mohun Bagan then asked the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to reschedule the match or move it to a neutral location.
AFC’s Response to Mohun Bagan’s Withdrawal
After the club refused to travel, the AFC declared Mohun Bagan had withdrawn from the tournament. According to Article 5.2 of the AFC Champions League 2 regulations, teams that do not appear for scheduled matches are considered withdrawn.
As a result, all of Mohun Bagan’s matches in the competition were canceled, and their results were declared void. This decision removes Mohun Bagan from the group stage standings and affects the overall competition.
Impact on the Tournament
Mohun Bagan’s withdrawal impacts the group stage standings, as their matches no longer count. The other teams in Group A must adjust without facing the Indian club. The situation highlights the tension between player safety and tournament integrity in international sports.
Mohun Bagan’s Actions and Government Advisory
Before withdrawing, Mohun Bagan consulted the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. The ministry’s advisory placed the responsibility on travelers to conflict zones, including Iran. The club decided it was too risky for their players to go to Iran.
Mohun Bagan also submitted letters from players refusing to travel to the AFC, requesting a neutral venue or rescheduling of the match. Despite these efforts, the AFC confirmed the club’s withdrawal.
What Happens Next?
The AFC has referred the case to its committees for further review. Mohun Bagan may face sanctions for their decision, such as fines or restrictions on future tournaments.
For now, the club will focus on domestic competitions, though their withdrawal from ACL 2 is a missed opportunity for international exposure.
Conclusion
Mohun Bagan’s withdrawal from the AFC Champions League 2 highlights the importance of player safety in global competitions. While their decision protects their players, it also ends their hopes for progress in the tournament. This situation also raises concerns about how governing bodies handle safety risks in conflict zones. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
