This is also the first instance of a team pulling out of a competition because of COVID in a national-level football tournament in India.
Army Red were on Thursday forced to withdraw from their Durand Cup quarterfinal against FC Bengaluru United after COVID-19 cases were detected in their squad, allowing their opponents to move into the last-four stage. The match was scheduled for Friday but has now been called off.(More Football News)
“The Local Organising Committee (LOC) of 130th Durand Cup, has called off the quarterfinal game between Army Red and (FCBU) scheduled for Friday, September 24, 2021, at the Kalyani stadium due to positive COVID cases reported in the Army Red squad,” a media release said.
“All decisions have been taken, keeping in mind the health and safety of players and officials primarily and the continuity and success of the tournament,” the release added. The other quarterfinal between FC Goa and Delhi FC will be held as scheduled on Friday.
Meanwhile, on the day, Mohammedan Sporting Club have stunned defending champions Gokulam Kerala FC to become the first team in the semifinals. With Army Red withdrawing, FC Bengaluru United got a bye and sail into the semifinals unopposed.