The recent decision by Mohun Bagan not to travel to Iran for their AFC Champions League match against FC Tractor has sparked a debate.
The AFC is reportedly considering sanctions, including hefty fines and potential bans.
Some rival fans are quick to blame Mohun Bagan, fearing that India could lose its AFC Champions League spot and coefficient points.
However, given the current geopolitical tension, particularly the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, the situation demands a more humane perspective.
On Tuesday night, Iran launched missile strikes against Israel, and both countries have closed their airspace.
The entire region is on high alert, with escalation a real possibility.
A life or death scenario
Just recently, missiles were spotted in flight during another AFC match in Iran, between Esteghlal and Istiklol.
The game took place under the shadow of missile attacks, which only underlines the genuine threat to anyone traveling to the region.
Tabriz, where FC Tractor is based, is in close proximity to areas where missiles are being launched.
It is therefore understandable for Mohun Bagan, or any team for that matter, to prioritize the safety of their players, staff, and fans.
In times of conflict, human lives takes precedence over football.
Missiles over ACL clash between Stephan vs Istiklol. (Photo Credit: X)
Rivalries can wait
Critics argue that Mohun Bagan’s decision not to travel could cost India its AFC Champions League slot and crucial coefficient points.
While these concerns may have some validity in a sporting context, they pale in comparison to the risks involved.
No team should be forced to play under such circumstances, where the very act of traveling could endanger lives.
Football is a beautiful game, but it is still just a game. Human life, on the other hand, is irreplaceable.
In situations like this, we must consider humanity over sport.
The middle-east is witnessing a complex geopolitical crisis, and it would be unfair to punish a team for acting with caution and responsibility.
The AFC must understand that football cannot be isolated from the realities of the world.
Sanctioning Mohun Bagan for a decision based on safety would set a dangerous precedence.
Instead of fines and bans, there should be empathy and flexibility.
Football is meant to unite people, not force them into life-threatening situations.
While fans may be disappointed will the team opting no to travel, the realization must dawn that life is much bigger than football.
Mohun Bagan made the right call by choosing to prioritize safety, and in doing so, they showed that football can still be played on another day.
The ball is now in AFCs court and one can only hope that wisdom, if not common sense prevails in keeping with the facts that are unfolding in plain sight.