The 132nd edition of the Durand Cup football tournament is all set to kick off in Guwahati, Assam, as excitement builds up for football fans across the region. The tournament, organized by the Indian Armed Forces and supported by the Government of Assam, will be held from August 3 to September 3 in three different venues – Guwahati and Kokrajhar in Assam and Kolkata in West Bengal.
This year’s edition of the Durand Cup will see a total of 24 teams participating, four more than the previous edition, vying for the coveted trophy. Notably, all 12 teams from the Indian Super League (ISL) will be taking part in the tournament, along with two foreign services teams from Bangladesh and Nepal. These foreign teams are returning to the tournament after a hiatus of 27 years, adding an extra element of excitement to the competition.
The Durand Cup holds a special place in the history of football in India, as it has been instrumental in nurturing some of the country’s finest footballing talents over the years. Established in 1888, it is not only the oldest tournament in Asia but also the third oldest football tournament in the world. What makes the Durand Cup unique is that the winning team is awarded not one, but three trophies – the Durand Cup, the Simla Trophy, and the President’s Cup.
The Indian Armed Forces, with their three teams, will be joined by the teams from the ISL, foreign services, and seven teams from the i-league, making it a diverse and competitive tournament. The inclusion of these teams from different leagues will ensure that fans witness high-quality football throughout the event.
With the tournament being spread across three different venues, football enthusiasts from Guwahati, Kokrajhar, and Kolkata will have the opportunity to witness the thrilling matches firsthand. The Durand Cup is expected to attract a massive crowd as fans enthusiastically cheer for their favorite teams and players.
As the tournament approaches, the sense of anticipation among football fans continues to grow. The Durand Cup not only provides a platform for talented players to showcase their skills but also brings communities together in the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. As teams gear up to compete for glory, all eyes will be on Assam as it sets the stage for an unforgettable football frenzy.
In conclusion, the Durand Cup’s upcoming edition promises an exciting and action-packed tournament. With a diverse mix of teams from different leagues and the inclusion of foreign services teams, this year’s competition is set to be one of the most memorable in recent history. Football enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing top-class football in Guwahati, Kokrajhar, and Kolkata as the players battle it out for the coveted Durand Cup trophy. Let the games begin!
