Mohun Bagan Skips AFC Champions League Two Match Against Tractor SC in Iran Due to Safety Concerns

In a significant development in the AFC Champions League Two 2024-25, Indian football club Mohun Bagan Super Giant has decided not to travel to Iran for their scheduled match against Tractor SC, citing serious safety concerns.

The decision comes in the wake of heightened security risks and political unrest in the region, particularly following the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in an Israeli air strike in Lebanon. This incident led to a declaration of five-day public mourning by Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, further exacerbating the tense situation.

Safety Concerns and Player Reluctance

Mohun Bagan Super Giant's players and coaching staff expressed strong reservations about traveling to Iran. The club has foreign players from countries such as Australia, Spain, Scotland, and Portugal, all of which have advised against traveling to Iran due to the prevailing security situation. For instance, Australias travel advisory warns of potential terrorist attacks and ongoing protests, while Portugal has discouraged any trips to Iran.

The club has communicated their concerns to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the All India Football Federation, seeking alternative solutions such as shifting the match to a different venue. However, the AFC had initially assured that the security situation was under control, a stance that has since been rendered obsolete by the escalating tensions.

Potential Consequences and AFC Response

According to the AFC Champions League Two rulebook, Mohun Bagan Super Giant may face severe consequences for not traveling to Iran. The club could be forced to forfeit the match with a 3-0 margin in favor of Tractor SC, along with a fine of at least $50,000. Additionally, there is a possibility of a ban from the competition for multiple years.

The AFC has acknowledged Mohun Bagans decision and stated that the matter will be referred to the relevant AFC Committees for further action. However, no definitive decision has been made yet regarding the rescheduling or neutral venue for the match.

Group Stage and Tournament Structure

Mohun Bagan Super Giant is part of Group A in the AFC Champions League Two, along with Al-Wakrah SC from Qatar, Tractor SC from Iran, and FC Ravshan from Tajikistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 16, scheduled for February 2025. The tournament will culminate in a single-leg final on May 17, 2025.

Mohun Bagan qualified for the tournament by winning the 2023-24 Indian Super League Shield. Their continental campaign began with a 0-0 draw against FC Ravshan last month, and they are currently third in the group standings.

For more information on the AFC Champions League Two and its structure, you can visit the AFC Cup page, which details the history and format of Asias second-tier club football competition.

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