Legacy and Rivalry: Big show of football is back 

Pugazh Murugan Raguraman

The 2024 edition of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest existing football tournament and the third oldest in the world, kicks off on July 27. This prestigious competition will feature 24 teams, including 13 Indian Super League (ISL) sides. The tournament has a storied history, reflecting its role in the development and promotion of football in the region.

Founded in 1888, the Durand Cup was initially organized by the British Army in India to honor the visit of Lord Durand, then-Viceroy of India. Originally a knockout competition with a focus on military teams, it quickly grew into a major event attracting teams from across India and later from international sides. This transformation highlighted the cup’s importance in the football landscape of the region.

Over the decades, the Durand Cup has expanded from its military origins to become a widely inclusive tournament. It now features top Indian clubs and prominent teams from neighboring countries, playing a significant role in nurturing football talent in India. The cup’s enduring legacy and its ability to adapt over time make it a celebrated fixture in the Indian football calendar.

Tournament Overview

This year’s Durand Cup will feature a total of 43 matches, comprising 36 group-stage matches, four quarterfinals, two semifinals, and the grand final, all set to take place in Kolkata. The tournament opener will see Mohun Bagan face Downtown Heroes FC at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium.Historical Significance

First played in 1888, the Durand Cup is named after Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, who served as the foreign secretary of British India from 1884 to 1894. Originally an interdepartmental and inter-regiment competition for the Indian Armed Forces, the tournament has evolved into a premier football event.

Trophies

The Durand Cup boasts three prestigious trophies:
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Durand Cup Trophy: The original rolling trophy.

Shimla Trophy: Another rolling trophy, first awarded by the residents of Shimla in 1904.

President’s Cup: A permanent trophy first presented by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, in 1956.Tournament Schedule

The 133rd edition runs from July 27 to August 31. Group stage matches will be held from July 27 to August 18, with knockout stage dates yet to be announced. The final will be held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on August 31.

Match Venues:-

Matches will be played across five stadiums in four cities:
– Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
– Kishore Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
– Sports Authority of India Stadium, Kokrajhar
– Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong

 

– ISL Teams: Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, Kerala Blasters FC, Jamshedpur FC, Odisha FC, NorthEast United FC, Hyderabad FC, Chennaiyin FC, Punjab FC, FC Goa, Mohammedan SC.
– I-League Teams: Inter Kashi, Shillong Lajong FC.
– State League Teams: Downtown Heroes, Bodoland FC.
– Armed Forces Teams: Indian Army football team, Indian Air Force football team, Indian Navy football team, Assam Rifles, Border Security Force, Central Industrial Security Force Protectors.
– Foreign Side: Tribhuvan Army (Nepal Services).Tournament Format

The group stage follows a single round-robin format. The top team from each group will advance to the top 8, while the next two spots will be filled based on performance. In case of ties, the following criteria will be used:
1. Head-to-head record among tied teams.
2. Goal difference in head-to-head matches among tied teams.
3. Goals scored in head-to-head matches among tied teams.
4. If more than two teams are tied, the above criteria are reapplied exclusively to the subset of tied teams.
5. Goal difference in group matches.
6. Goals scored in group matches.
7. Drawing of lots.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant are the defending champions, having defeated East Bengal 1-0 in last year’s final at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

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