Durand Cup 2023: Chennaiyin FC and Jamshedpur FC Set for Group D Showdown

The 133rd Durand Cup begins Saturday, featuring ISL clubs Chennaiyin FC and Jamshedpur FC in Group D alongside two Indian Armed Forces teams. Jamshedpur FC will play at home under new coach Khalid Jamil, while Chennaiyin FC aims for success with new signings. Assam Rifles FT replaces Bangladesh Army FT.

The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup is nearing its commencement, with the tournament slated to begin on Saturday. Among the highlights is the face-off between ISL clubs Chennaiyin FC and Jamshedpur FC in Group D, as well as the participation of two Indian Armed Forces teams - Indian Army FT and Assam Rifles FT, according to the Indian Super League (ISL) website.

Jamshedpur FC will benefit from a home advantage, as all Group D fixtures are scheduled in their city. The Men of Steel recently appointed seasoned Indian head coach Khalid Jamil, who will be at the helm for the next two years. Chennaiyin FC, bolstered by numerous new signings during the summer transfer window, are aiming to make a significant impression under the stewardship of Owen Coyle. The Marina Machans target a strong performance to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Rounding out the group are Indian Army FT and Assam Rifles FT. Notably, Assam Rifles FT replaced Bangladesh Army FT, who withdrew from the competition. Chennaiyin FC has shown commitment to assembling a formidable squad, with standout signings such as Daniel Chima Chukwu, Lukas Brambilla, Wilmar Jordan Gil, Elsinho Dias, PC Laldinpuia, Mandar Rao Dessai, and Kiyan Nassiri. The team eyes glory this season, hoping for a robust start in the upcoming Durand Cup.

The Marina Machans reached the ISL playoffs last season as the sixth-placed team, demonstrating a significant turnaround in the latter half of the season. With a more balanced squad this year, Coyle has the chance to assess his players during the Durand Cup and guide them towards a potential title. Jamshedpur FC has also made strategic moves in the transfer market, strengthening their roster with new additions such as Stephen Eze, Javi Hernandez, and Jordan Murray, along with contract renewals for Rei Tachikawa and Javier Siverio. Since taking charge midway through the 2023-24 season, Khalid Jamil has led the Men of Steel to the Super Cup semi-finals and maintained a five-match unbeaten streak in the ISL.

Known for his tactical acumen and ability to maximize player potential, Jamil is expected to be a pivotal figure on the sidelines for Jamshedpur FC. With him at the helm from the season's outset, the Men of Steel could become formidable contenders in the upcoming tournament.

(With inputs from agencies.)