Lucknow, known as the city of Nawabs, is set to host the iconic clash between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal for the first time on September 2, as part of efforts to boost football in Uttar Pradesh. The match will take place at the K D Singh Babu Stadium in the state capital.
State sports director R P Singh informed news agency PTI that preparations are in full swing for this highly anticipated game, which will be held under floodlights. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to attend, with around 10,000 spectators expected to fill the stadium.
Unfortunately, in this match, senior players will not participate. All players will be in the national team camp from August 31 in Hyderabad.
Preparations done for the derby
As part of the preparations, the recently installed floodlights are being tested, and dressing rooms and other facilities for the players are being set up. Singh mentioned that All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey recently met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow and highlighted the importance of promoting football in Uttar Pradesh.
It was during this meeting that the idea of hosting the derby was proposed, and the state government agreed to the plan. Both teams are scheduled to arrive in Lucknow on September 1.
