The confusion with the AFC continues. The AFC has now gone on to relocate Iran vs Qatar 2026 World Cup qualification scheduled to be held in Iran. Owing to the ongoing war-like situation in the country, the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers have now been relocated to a neutral venue. And with this decision, there are major questions about Mohun Bagan’s case.
The original fixture between Iran vs Qatar was scheduled to take place at Emam Reza Stadium in Mashhad, Iran. But now the match will be played in a neutral venue. This was done after Iran went on to launch a couple of missiles towards Tel Aviv. To this move, Israile replied that there would be a strong response from their end.
Iran has till 9th October to choose a neutral country where the game will be played. Now this move from the AFC draws major criticism and controversy. Indian giant, Mohun Bagan refused to travel to Iran last week owing to the war-like situation. However, the AFC decided to announce in an official statement that with the Mariners not traveling, they are axed from the tournament.
Mohun Bagan had previously informed that the security of their players and staff is of paramount importance. The AFC claimed with Mohun Bagan not playing the match, they are considered to be withdrawn from the competition. The football body further added that Mohun Bagan’s points, goals, and matches would be deemed 0 after the conclusion of the group stage.
Earlier, Mohun Bagan had put forward their case to the FIFA Ethics Committee and after the AFC’s move, the Green and Maroon brigade will appeal the decision to the AFC Ethics Committee. The Kolkata giants previously claimed that they were ready to play the game at a neutral venue or were up for a rescheduled fixture. However, that didn’t take place as Iranian club Tractor FC was unwilling to make arrangements for the same.
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