Historic Durand Cup Kicks Off with Mohun Bagan SG vs Downtown Heroes FC

The 133rd Durand Cup commences at VYBK, featuring reigning champions Mohun Bagan SG against Srinagar’s Downtown Heroes FC. The tournament spans four states with 24 teams. Mohun Bagan enters strong with key international signings, while Downtown Heroes aim to make Kashmir proud.

The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup is set for a grand start at Vivekananda Yuba Bharti Krirangan (VYBK) on Saturday. Defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face Downtown Heroes of Srinagar in a Group A match.p>

Downtown Heroes FC, founded four years ago, focuses on nurturing young, homegrown talent. They made their Durand Cup debut last season and competed in the 2022-23 I-League Division 2, according to an Indian Super League (ISL) press release.

Mohun Bagan SG enters the tournament as reigning champions after clinching the ISL Shield last season. Guided by head coach Jose Francisco Molina, they have a strengthened squad with notable international signings including Jamie Maclaren, Greg Stewart, Alberto Rodriguez, and Tom Aldred. Their captain, Basit Ahmed, voiced confidence and pride as they prepare for this prestigious event.

For the first time, the Durand Cup is being played in four states with Shillong and Jamshedpur joining Kokrajhar and Kolkata as host cities. The 24 teams are divided into six groups for the tournament, leading to quarterfinals scheduled in Kokarajhar, Jamshedpur, and Kolkata.

(With inputs from agencies.)