I-League 2024-25: SC Bengaluru file official complaint against Namdhari FC

The controversy sparked after Namdhari FC’s Cledson Da Silva played against SC Bengaluru.

Amidst a mouth-watering epic final match week of the I-League ahead, Namdhari FC find itself in yet another controversy. This comes at a time when the I-League points table is very tight, and a point here and there could significantly alter the equations.

Match no. 122 of the I League saw Namdhari FC emerge victorious against SC Bengaluru after the home side netted two goals in Ludhiana. The win helped the Punjab-based outfit to climb higher in the I-League points table.

However, a recent controversy erupted after SC Bengaluru filed an official complaint alleging that Namdhari fielded an ineligible player in the match against Bengaluru. Let’s take a look at what actually happened and how will it alter the standings in I League.

What did Bengaluru complain about?

The official complaint filed by SC Bengaluru stated that, as per the rules and regulations of the I-League 2024-25, in accordance with Article 12.3.2, a player receiving four yellow cards in different matches is subject to missing the next match. Any further accumulation of yellow cards until 7 would lead to yet another suspension for a match.

Bengaluru alleged that De received seven yellow cards until the match against Gokulam. Apart from that, he also received a direct red card against the Malabarians. Considering a one-match suspension after picking a red card and the previous seven yellow cards received in total should have resulted in a minimum of two match suspensions.

Also Read: How can Churchill Brothers SC win the 2024-25 I-League title?

But, SC Bengaluru alleged that De was fielded by Namdhari in the match and called it a serious breach of the suspension regulations enforcement in the second division of Indian football.

How will this affect the points table?

Depending upon the verdict of the AIFF Disciplinary Committee, if Namdhari’s three points are deducted along with a -3 goal difference, this would lead to a massive alteration in the I League points table.

Though it might not have a direct impact in the run for the I-League Championship, this result would see Namdhari falling down to the 9th position behind Dempo SC. On the other hand, an extra three points could see Bengaluru SC moving ahead of Aizawl FC to clinch the 10th spot.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.