Seven I-League clubs withdraw from Super Cup: Details here
What's the story
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is in a lurch after seven I-League clubs, including holders Chennai City, withdrew from the Super Cup. These clubs have taken the decision due to uncertainty surrounding the future of the I-League. They had written a letter last month to AIFF highlighting the issues, but the problems remain unaddressed. Here is more about it.
Information
Here are the seven clubs that withdrew from Super Cup
The seven clubs that withdrew from the Super Cup are I-League champions Chennai City, alongside the likes of Aizawl, Neroca, Mohun Bagan, Quess East Bengal, Gokulam Kerala and Minerva Punjab.
Super Cup
Super Cup is scheduled to start from March 15 onwards
The 2018-19 I-League witnessed the final game-week last weekend and teams were supposed to gear up for the Super Cup, which is scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar. The qualifiers are set to start from March 15 onwards. The final is slated to be held on April 13. The tournament is now in disarray after this move by the I-League clubs.
Reasons
I-League clubs list following four reasons for withdrawal
Majority of the clubs stand united and had raised issues with the AIFF via a letter. As per reports, the four major points highlighted in the letter were, 1) No clarity about the I-League and its future. 2) No response to the letter written on February 18. 3) Increasing difficulty to find financial sponsors and 4) Lack of agenda at grass root level.
Quote
I-league clubs release a statement
"Neither of these moves are targeted to any individual or entity but is aimed at ensuring that the agenda of the AIFF is focused on the structure of football and the development of the game. Clubs are keen to play and win," the release said.
Information
Key information regarding the Super Cup
The Super Cup is a knock-out tournament by the AIFF. The I-League clubs lock horns with the Indian Super League (ISL) teams. It is India's premium club knock-out tourney. Minerva Punjab were scheduled to play the qualifying round against ISL's FC Pune City on Friday.