Mohun Bagan withdraws from AFC Champions League 2 Away match against Iran’s Sepahan

The Indian Super League champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) has withdrawn from his AFC Champions League 2 -road match against Iran’s Sepahan SC planned for Tuesday, because the six foreign players of the club refused to travel to that nation after «advice from their respective countries».

After a meeting with all players and Indian staff, a collective decision was made not to travel to Iran for the game, a club officer told PTI on Sunday.

The team members had to fly out of the country for Iran on Sunday morning, after the E-Visas players were published.

«All six foreigners have refused to travel after travel advice from their respective countries. The team management fully supports the sentiments and decision of players,» said the civil servant.

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The club on Saturday approached the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) for a resolution with regard to the trip to Iran for the AFC Champions League Two (ACL 2) match.

«MBSG prioritizing the safety and well-being of his players, officials and support staff. Our players and their families have expressed concern about traveling to Iran,» the club said on its social media handle.

«After careful consideration of government advice and the potential uncovered risks, and maintaining the feelings of the players, the club approached the Cas to find an honest resolution and to protect its interests.»

Earlier, MBSG had asked the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to move its ACL 2 match of 30 September against Sepahan SC from Iran, with reference to safety problems.

MBSG has the Australian attacking trio of Dimitri Petratos, Jamie Maclaren and Jason Cummings, while defender Tom Aldred comes from the UK. The other two defenders – Alberto Rodriguez and Robson Robinho – come from Spain and Brazil respectively.

The Mariners, who after winning the ISL a direct place in the ACL 2 secured people, opened their continental campaign with a 0-1 loss for Ahal FK from Turkmenistan in the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on September 16.

They are now confronted with two back-to-back-sex matches against Sepahan on September 30 and Jordan’s Al Hussain on October 21.

Not popping up can lead to serious sanctions and endanger the future participation of Indian clubs in ACL 2. Last season Mumbai City FC was forced to play in Tehran without important foreigners.

(with PTI entrances)

Published on September 28, 2025