East Bengal FC vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant, ISL 2023-24: Has Kolkata Derby Been Postponed? Check Details

The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, initially planned for March 10, is in jeopardy of being cancelled due to logistical issues.

The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between East Bengal FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Indian Super League (ISL) faces fresh complications as the clash of the two Kolkata giants is in danger of cancellation as per a MyKhel report. Scheduled for the upcoming March 10 (Sunday), the crucial ISL match between the two arch-rivals may not happen as per scheduled. Mohun Bagan Super Giant are in pursuit of the ISL shield title, while East Bengal FC aim to secure their first-ever ISL playoff appearance this season.

The initial league encounter between the two sides ended in a draw, heightening anticipation for the upcoming clash, which was set to be their final meeting of the season.

The match, planned at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on March 10, now faces the possibility of cancellation. As per a MyKhel report, the iconic football clash between the two clubs has been called off due to a clash with a political rally and meeting called by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on the same day.

Security Concerns For East Bengal FC vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant Clash

The Kolkata Police have expressed their inability to manage both high-profile events simultaneously, leading to the postponement of the football match. The ISL has reportedly requested authorities to reschedule the match for either March 9 (Saturday) or March 11 (Monday).

Given East Bengal's prior ISL commitments, a rescheduled match on March 11 seems more feasible. Engaging in a match against FC Goa in Goa on March 6 (Wednesday), the Red and Gold Brigade face a challenging task of returning home and participating in another match within the next 60 hours. 

Furthermore, the political gathering is expected to draw thousands of people to Kolkata, necessitating heightened security measures on March 9. This is also a contributing factor to the potential rescheduled match being held on the day following the originally planned date.

However, there is speculation about the match being moved to Bhubaneswar on the proposed day. As of now, no definitive solution has been reached, and clarity is expected in the coming days.