Shillong, Aug 18: In a surprising turn of events triggered by the ongoing unrest in Kolkata, the Durand Cup 2024 has undergone a significant change in its fixture schedule.
The high-voltage quarterfinal clash between Shillong Lajong FC and East Bengal FC will now be hosted by the Meghalaya capital on August 21, with kick-off at 7 PM IST.
Originally slated to be played in Kolkata, the match has been relocated to the JN Stadium in Shillong due to the volatile situation in the West Bengal capital.
The decision comes in the wake of the tragic incident involving a young doctor, which has led to widespread protests and disruptions in the city. While the other Kolkata-based team, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, will play their quarterfinal in Jamshedpur, the potential for further changes to the tournament’s schedule, including the semifinals and final, remains a possibility if the situation in Kolkata does not improve.
The relocation of the Lajong-East Bengal match to Shillong is a boon for local football fans, who will have the opportunity to witness a clash between two iconic Indian clubs. Shillong Lajong, having clinched the top spot in Group F, will be eager to capitalize on home advantage against East Bengal, who finished as runners-up in Group A. The two teams last met at the senior level in the 2019 I-League, a competition in which Lajong were subsequently relegated. East Bengal, on the other hand, made the transition to the Indian Super League.
The upcoming encounter promises to be a fiercely contested affair as the old rivals renew their rivalry.
The complete quarterfinal lineup for the Durand Cup 2024 is as follows:
As the situation in Kolkata continues to evolve, the Durand Cup organizers will closely monitor developments and make necessary adjustments to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.
The relocation of the highly anticipated Durand Cup quarterfinal between Shillong Lajong FC and East Bengal FC to Shillong marks a dramatic shift in the tournament’s narrative, bringing the excitement of top-tier Indian football to the heart of Meghalaya. For local fans, this is more than just a match; it’s a rare opportunity to witness their beloved Lajong FC square off against a historic rival on home soil, a privilege that comes against the backdrop of unfortunate circumstances in Kolkata.
The change in venue not only enhances the stakes for Lajong, who will now enjoy the fervent support of their home crowd, but also underscores the unpredictable nature of sports in the face of broader societal events.
The decision to move the match is a testament to the organizers’ commitment to player and spectator safety, as they navigate the challenges posed by the unrest in Kolkata.
It also highlights the resilience of the tournament in adapting to unforeseen disruptions, ensuring that the spirit of competition remains intact. As Shillong prepares to host this high-stakes encounter, the city is set to be at the center of Indian football’s spotlight, with fans eagerly anticipating a match that promises to deliver both passion and intensity.
