Coronavirus Outbreak: ISL Final Between ATK FC and Chennaiyin FC To Be Played In Close Door
Mumbai: As per officials on March 14, the Indian Super League final between ATK FC and Chennaiyin FC will be played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kova, due to the COVID-19 epidemic.
Due to the current preventive measures suggested by the Sports Ministry, league organizer Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) has decided to hold the season finals behind closed doors.
FSDL said that the decision was taken keeping in mind the health and safety of the players, fans and support staff.
“The upcoming Hero Indian Super League 2019-20 will be the final on Saturday, March 14, 2020, between ATK FC and Chennaiyin FC,” ISC organizers said in a statement.
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The decision came following the advice of the Sports Ministry of all National Federations to follow the advice of the Ministry of Health and avoid large gatherings at sporting events.
“… Make sure that no sporting event is held in any public event. The sports event cannot be avoided, in the same way, it can be done to allow spectators to gather, ”read an order from the Sports Ministry.
FSDL founding chairperson Nita Ambani said that the decision to play the final without an audience was taken for the public interest and the safety and health of fans.
“The ISL 2019-20 season has seen high intensity, great player spirit and tremendous fan enthusiasm. We have received immense love and support from fans throughout the season and it is truly a heavy scene to see passionate fans cheering their teams. The final in Goa was no less, ”she said in a statement.
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“We were as excited as the fans for the finals, but in the public interest and for the safety and health of the fans, we have decided to host the finals behind closed doors.”
Seeking a hat-trick of titles, ATK reached this season’s final after beating defending champions Bengaluru FC 3-2 on aggregate in the semifinals over two legs.
Chennaiyin FC, who had won the title in 2015, had beaten FC Goa 6-5 on aggregates to reach the summit clash.
The Coronavirus outbreak, declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday, has led to more than 4,000 deaths globally.
FSDL said it will soon initiate the process of ticket refunds and an announcement will be made through Hero ISL channels.
The final match will be telecast live on Star Sports, Hotstar and Jio TV.
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