Durand Cup Kicks Off: Tough Battles Ahead in Group C

The 133rd Durand Cup starts this Saturday with Group C set to have fiercely competitive matches. Featuring Indian Super League sides and the Indian Armed Forces Team, clubs aim to test and refine their squads ahead of the league season.

The new season is imminently upon us, with the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup set to commence this Saturday. This esteemed tournament offers clubs a valuable platform to evaluate their squad depth and refine strategies ahead of the upcoming league campaign. Group C stands out as one of the most challenging groups in the tournament, featuring three Indian Super League (ISL) sides—Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters FC, and Punjab FC—along with the Indian Armed Forces Team, CISF Protectors, according to the Indian Super League (ISL) website.

Kerala Blasters FC and Punjab FC have both seen changes in their head coaching positions, alongside numerous new arrivals. Both clubs aim to present a formidable challenge to the Islanders for the top spot, marking the beginning of a new era under their new coaches. Notably, the two-time ISL Shield and Cup winners, Mumbai City FC, will be fielding their reserve side for the Durand Cup, offering an excellent opportunity for their academy players to showcase their potential.

Meanwhile, the CISF Protectors will be determined to create major upsets and significantly influence the group dynamics. Kerala Blasters FC is set on a fresh start under new head coach Mikael Stahre, who aims to make an immediate impact. The team has been rigorously training during their pre-season tour in Thailand with a full-strength squad.

The arrival of Noah Sadaoui brings renewed hope for the Blasters. The Moroccan, who was the joint-highest goalscorer last year with six goals, will be crucial alongside David Lalhlansanga. Kerala Blasters FC will rely on the partnership of Sadaoui and Adrian Luna to strengthen their attack. Swedish head coach Stahre will also be keen for his players to adhere to his philosophy to secure positive results in his first assignment, with aspirations to contend for the title. On another front, Punjab FC, known as the Shers, made an impressive comeback during the second half of the ISL last season, finishing just two spots shy of the playoff position. However, they face a rebuild this season due to significant changes at the close of last season, including the exit of former head coach Staikos Vergetis. Panagiotis Dilmperis now helms the coaching duties, and the team is in a rebuilding phase. They have re-signed forward Luka Majcen, who will be pivotal in their attack following the departures of Madih Talal and Wilmar Jordan Gil.

(With inputs from agencies.)