Durand Cup 2025 Kicks Off in Kokrajhar with Thrilling Matches

Exciting Start to the Durand Cup in Kokrajhar

Kokrajhar, July 27: The prestigious Durand Cup commenced in Kokrajhar on Sunday, featuring a thrilling match where the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Football Team triumphed over the 10-man Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC with a score of 2–1 in the opening game of Group D at the SAI Stadium.

This year, Kokrajhar is one of three Northeastern cities, along with Shillong and Imphal, hosting the 134th edition of this historic tournament.

The event is being organized by the Indian Army in partnership with the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), and the Kokrajhar segment will include six league matches and a quarterfinal, which is set for August 16.

During the opening ceremony at SAI Stadium, BTC chief Pramod Boro expressed his appreciation to the Indian Army for returning the tournament to Kokrajhar for the third consecutive year.

"Three years ago, when the Army first proposed hosting the tournament in the Bodoland Territorial Region, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma remarked that it would be a great opportunity for the area. This marks the third consecutive year for the Durand Cup here, and I believe such events will motivate the youth of our region to contribute to the nation," Boro stated to the media.

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri was a highlight at the opening ceremony. He expressed his joy over the pitch quality and the enthusiastic crowd, commending the organizers.

"I didn’t anticipate such an incredible turnout. The pitch quality is impressive—I’m truly pleased. Kudos to all the organizers," he remarked.

The opening ceremony also captivated attendees with an impressive aerial display featuring paragliding, helicopter flyovers, and fighter jet performances.

As Group D and E matches have commenced in Kokrajhar and Shillong respectively, Imphal is preparing to host its inaugural match on July 30.