I-League 2018-19: Real Kashmir vs Minerva Punjab - 5 times when matches were abandoned in Indian football

#1 East Bengal vs Palmeiras 'B' (IFA Shield, 2001)

Players involved in a brawl during the match

The IFA Shield is one of the most prestigious tournaments in Indian football. But it had a dark moment during its 2001 edition when Brazil’s Palmeiras ‘B’ team visited Kolkata to participate in the tournament. Local team East Bengal and the South American club were scheduled to play the final at the Salt Lake Stadium.

The Kolkata-based team played their semi-final clash against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan just a day before and were not inclined to play that day. But the organisers turned a deaf ear to their complaints because the away team had a flight back home the day after.

East Bengal were also not happy with the match ball that was being used, urging the fourth official to change it. After 15 minutes of play, the referee changed the match ball, which compelled the visitors to march off the field in protest.

The match resumed eight minutes later.

Later on, in the 25th minute, Reinaldo scored a long ranger to give Palmeiras the lead. Backed by a strong home crowd, East Bengal players resorted to rash tackles and unnecessary tussles with their opponents after conceding that goal.

The Brazilian team also replied in a similar manner until things went out of control when East Bengal’s Nigerian recruit Omoloja Olalekan was fouled near the Palmeiras box. This led to an ugly brawl, which left a few players injured. The match was called off soon.

A couple of days later, East Bengal were declared the winners after IFA ruled Palmeiras out for indiscipline.