The 134th edition of the Durand Cup is proving to be more than just a football tournament; it’s a celebration of the sport’s deep-rooted passion across India. With matches being held in multiple cities, the tournament has ignited an electrifying atmosphere, drawing record crowds and showcasing the unifying power of the game.
NorthEast Derby Electrifies Shillong
In a thrilling North East derby, defending champions North East United FC secured their place in the quarterfinals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Shillong Lajong FC. While Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s double strike sealed the win, the real story was the packed Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. A roaring crowd of 13,900 fans created an electric atmosphere, a testament to the region’s love for football. With six points from two matches, the Highlanders now need just a point from their final group stage game to qualify as group winners.
From Imphal to Kokrajhar: The North-East’s Passion Shines
The tournament’s return to Manipur, a state healing from a period of unrest, has been met with an outpouring of support. The opening match at the Khuman Lampak Stadium between local giants – NEROCA FC and TRAU FC – was a poignant sight, with thousands of fans and students filling the stands, celebrating both football and a return to normalcy.
When hard work meets the final whistle, pure passion, pure celebration! #NFCINFT #134thEditionofIndianOilDurandCup #PoweredBySBIandCoalIndia #DurandCup2025 #ManyChampionsOneLegacy #IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/aaggiqVWqz
— Durand Cup (@thedurandcup) August 7, 2025
The enthusiasm was equally palpable in Kokrajhar, where celebrations began hours before kick-off. A festive buzz, complete with a DJ set, hot air balloon displays, and vibrant cultural performances, set the stage for the matches. Football icon Sunil Chhetri’s inspiring words to the packed stadium further fueled the excitement, reinforcing the tournament’s role as a national spectacle.
Kolkata Gears Up for Thrilling Clashes
As the tournament progresses, Kolkata, the mecca of Indian football, is also witnessing some gripping action. With city rivals, Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal, along with Mohammedan and Diamond Harbour FC, competing, fans have eagerly embraced the return of competitive football. The city is now buzzing with anticipation for a crucial Group B decider where Mohun Bagan faces Diamond Harbour FC. The match holds an emotional subplot, as Diamond Harbour’s head coach, Kibu Vicuna, is the same man who led Mohun Bagan to the I-League title in 2019, adding a layer of rivalry and nostalgia to the contest.
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The football fever is equally strong in in Jamshedpur
The JRD Tata Sports Complex has been a fortress for Jamshedpur FC. Fans, taking advantage of free entry, have flocked to the stands, ensuring a full house even for the afternoon matches. Under the guidance of newly-appointed national team coach Khalid Jamil, Jamshedpur FC has been in dominant form, winning all three of its group stage matches to secure a spot in the quarterfinals.
A Silver Lining Amidst Uncertainty
While the future of the Indian football calendar remains uncertain, with the fate of the ISL season resting on a Supreme Court verdict, the Durand Cup is providing a much-needed dose of footballing action. As the group stages draw to a close and the tournament moves towards the knockout phase, the intensity is set to escalate, keeping fans hooked and reminding everyone that, despite the off-field challenges, the passion for the game in India is stronger than ever.
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