Mohammedan SC’s refusal to participate over the CFL 2026 final controversy forces the IFA Shield to begin on September 23.
Kolkata, September 21: The Calcutta Football League 2026 may have concluded as scheduled, but the controversy surrounding it football continues. The IFA Shield 2026 was scheduled to kick off tomorrow with East Bengal FC vs Mohammedan SC fixture. However, Mohammedan SC have refused to participate in the tournament over a demand, forcing a change to the opening schedule. As a result, the IFA Shield will now begin on September 23, with Mohun Bagan SG and Northeast United FC set to open the tournament.
The controversy began during the CFL 2026 decider between Mohun Bagan SG and Mohammedan SC. With the match level at 2-2, Mohun Bagan SG scored their third and winning goal through Sayan Banerjee. However, Mohammedan SC raised questions over the build-up to the goal, claiming that Sahal Abdul Samad was in an offside position. The match officials did not call for an offside, and the goal stood.
Following the incident, Mohammedan SC management appealed to the Indian Football Association (IFA), demanding that the match be replayed. The club also stated that they would not participate in the IFA Shield if their demand was not accepted.
Mohammedan SC management also raised an allegation regarding the presence of a Mohun Bagan SG management member inside the field of play, which they questioned in connection with the win.
In this situation, the IFA decided that the CFL decider would not be replayed. Following the allegations raised by Mohammedan SC, Mohun Bagan SG are also set to take legal action, according to reports.
The CFL controversy has now had its impact on the IFA Shield as well. With Mohammedan SC refusing to participate, the tournament schedule has been changed, and the Shield will now begin on September 23 with Mohun Bagan SG and Northeast United FC. The controversy has therefore continued from the CFL pitch to the IFA Shield.
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