Jamshedpur FC to Face Bangladesh Armed Forces FT in Historic Durand Cup Opener

The 133rd Durand Cup kicks off on July 28 at JRD Sports Complex, featuring Jamshedpur FC against Bangladesh Armed Forces FT. 24 teams including two Services outfits from Nepal and Bangladesh will compete across 43 matches in four cities. The grand finale will take place in Kolkata on August 31.

The 133rd Durand Cup will launch on July 28 at JRD Sports Complex, marking the first instance of the historic tournament commencing at this venue. Jamshedpur FC will face Bangladesh Armed Forces FT in the opening match.

A total of 24 teams, including Services teams from Nepal and Bangladesh, will participate, playing across four host cities: Kokrajhar, Shillong, Kolkata, and Jamshedpur. The tournament will feature 43 matches, culminating in a grand finale at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on August 31.

In addition, three prestigious Durand Cup trophies—the original Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President's Cup—were showcased at the XLRI Auditorium for the first time. Group D matches at JRD Sports Complex will feature teams like Mohun Bagan, Chennaiyin FC, the Indian Army Football Team, and the Bangladesh Armed Forces FT.

(With inputs from agencies.)