In the latest development from the controversial match between Kerala Blasters FC and Bengaluru FC, the All India Football Federation has reportedly rejected KBFC’s demand for a replay. The Blasters lodged an official protest with the AIFF, demanding a replay of the game and a ban on the referee.
However, according to PTI, the protest has been called off. “The protest lodged by Kerala Blasters has been rescinded,” a source in the know of the development told PTI. The AIFF is expected to issue a full order to its disciplinary committee, which will take a call on Monday. The meeting took place.
Bengaluru FC won the match in extra time after the first 90 minutes ended with the two teams tied 0–0. But Chhetri scored a goal in extra time to take the team to the semi-finals.
What is the event about?
The incident happened in regulation time with KBFC and BFC tied at 0-0. A BFC player was taking the ball near the edge of the Blasters’ penalty area but Chhetri was pushed down by KBFC player Vibin Mohanan and awarded a free kick in the opposition half. Chhetri took a hasty kick without referee Crystal John’s whistle and it went in the goal to put them ahead 1–0. However, KBFC coach Ivan Vukomanović called the players off the field and into the dressing room, giving BFC the win and a place in the semi-finals.
Commentators on the broadcast were heard saying that referee Crystal John may have allowed Chhetri to take the kick in haste after the foul. Bengaluru FC will take on Mumbai City FC in the league’s first semi-final of the two legs on Tuesday in Mumbai. The second match will be played in Bengaluru on 12 March.