ISL: Kolkata Derby shifted from Kolkata to Guwahati amid security concerns

Mohun Bagan sit at the top of the ISL table ahead of Kolkata Derby.

The iconic Kolkata Derby, featuring Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC in the Indian Super League (ISL), has been moved from its traditional home in Kolkata to the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.

Scheduled for January 11, the decision was officially announced after logistical and security concerns made hosting the game in Kolkata unfeasible.

The change of venue comes as a surprise to fans, who are used to witnessing the “Boro Match” at the Salt Lake Stadium. Mohun Bagan took to social media to confirm the development, stating, “Saturday blockbuster ‘Boro Match’ will now be played at Guwahati. See you, Mariners.”

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Mohun Bagan are in red-hot form this season, leading the ISL standings with 32 points from 14 matches. Under coach Jose Molina, the team have won eight of their last ten games and remain unbeaten against East Bengal in ISL history. They will aim to keep that streak alive and secure a league double, having already beaten their rivals 2-0 earlier in the season.

East Bengal, however, have shown improvement under new coach Oscar Bruzon. The Red & Gold Brigade has lost only twice in their last 11 matches and even reached the AFC Challenge League quarterfinals. While they sit 11th in the ISL table with 14 points, their recent performances have given fans hope ahead of the derby.

Also Read: How Jason Cummings can impact from bench against East Bengal in ISL Kolkata Derby?

Why Was the Kolkata Derby Moved?

The derby had to be shifted due to the ongoing Gangasagar Mela in West Bengal, which requires a large police presence. The festival, which runs from January 8 to 17, requires extensive deployment of police personnel across the state, leaving inadequate resources to manage the derby.

West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas confirmed the challenge, stating that the government had informed ISL organizers about the situation, leading to the decision to move the derby outside Kolkata. Guwahati emerged as the preferred venue after Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Stadium was also considered.

This marks the second disruption to the derby this season due to security issues. The first occurred during the Durand Cup, where the group-stage match was abandoned, resulting in both teams sharing points.

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