Alleged Incidents Of Racism Mar East Bengal's Durand Cup Semifinal Win, AIFF Promises 'Strict Action'

31.08.2023 - 02:13 sports.ndtv.com

East Bengal's remarkable victory against NorthEast United FC in the Durand Cup semifinal was overshadowed by allegations of racism, with the visiting team fans reporting instances of racial slurs and being targeted with stones and slippers during the match.

The 16-time champions exhibited one of the greatest comebacks as they overturned a two-goal deficit in the last two minutes and secured a thrilling 5-3 victory in penalties to make the Durand Cup final after 19 years.

However, the scenes that unfolded after the match painted a grim picture as the NEUFC fans, numbering about 100-odd, claimed that the supporters of the Red and Gold brigade aimed projectiles and slurs at them.

The match witnessed an attendance of about 22,000-plus spectators. Such was the condition that immediate intervention by the Indian Army and local police was required to ensure safe exit of NorthEast United FC supporters.

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