Durand Cup: A Historic Tournament Revitalizing Indian Football
The Significance of the Durand Cup
The Durand Cup is a cornerstone of Indian football history, and its importance has only grown in recent years. As Asia's oldest football tournament, it has transformed into a crucial pre-season event for clubs nationwide, as highlighted on the official Indian Super League (ISL) website.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The 2020 edition of the Durand Cup was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, since 2021, teams from the Indian Super League have embraced the tournament, utilizing it as a platform to build team dynamics, assess strategies, and gain momentum ahead of the season.
FC Goa's Triumph in 2021
In 2021, FC Goa celebrated their inaugural Durand Cup victory, showcasing their prowess by winning all knockout matches after topping their group. Their semi-final victory came through a tense penalty shootout against Bengaluru FC, and they clinched the title with a goal in extra time against Mohammedan Sporting Club.
Challenges for FC Goa in ISL
Despite their success in the Durand Cup, FC Goa faced difficulties in the ISL. A coaching change mid-season to interim head coach Derrick Pereira did not yield the desired results, as injuries and inconsistent performances led to a disappointing ninth-place finish, their worst since 2016.
Bengaluru FC's 2022 Victory
Bengaluru FC also secured their first Durand Cup title in 2022, with the tournament hosted across multiple cities including Kolkata, Imphal, and Guwahati. After finishing second in their group, they progressed through the knockout stages, ultimately defeating Mumbai City FC in the final.
Bengaluru FC's ISL Journey
Under the guidance of new head coach Simon Grayson, Bengaluru FC struggled initially in the ISL but made a remarkable comeback, winning eight consecutive matches to qualify for the playoffs and reaching the final. They also finished as runners-up in the Super Cup.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant's 2023 Title
In 2023, Mohun Bagan Super Giant achieved their 17th Durand Cup title, overcoming East Bengal FC in a thrilling final. After finishing second in their group, they defeated strong teams like Mumbai City FC and FC Goa to reach the final, where they avenged their earlier loss to East Bengal.
MBSG's ISL Performance
The momentum from their Durand Cup victory propelled MBSG into the ISL season, where they initially thrived. However, a mid-season slump led to a coaching change, but they rebounded to top the league stage and secure the Shield, despite losing in the final to Mumbai City FC.
NorthEast United FC's Historic Win in 2024
In a stunning upset, NorthEast United FC defeated the defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant to win the 2024 Durand Cup. After topping their group and overcoming Indian Army and Shillong Lajong FC in the knockout rounds, they staged a remarkable comeback in the final, equalizing after being down 2-0 and winning in penalties.
NEUFC's ISL Season
This victory marked NorthEast United's first major trophy, igniting hope among fans. Under coach Juan Pedro Benali, they carried this momentum into the ISL, becoming a formidable team with the second-most goals scored and finishing fourth in the regular season, although their playoff run ended against Jamshedpur FC.