Shillong Hosts the 134th Durand Cup: A Celebration of Football Heritage

Durand Cup Returns to Shillong

Shillong, Meghalaya, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the 134th edition of the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, for the second consecutive year.

The event kicked off with a display of the three prestigious trophies at the State Convention Centre, graced by the presence of Meghalaya's Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, who served as the Chief Guest.

Also in attendance were Shakliar Warjri, the Honourable Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, along with Air Marshal Surat Singh, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, and Lt. Gen. Sanjay Malik, General Officer Commanding 101 Area, alongside officials from IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL).

The three shining trophies—the Durand Cup, the original prize, and the rolling Shimla Trophy, which was presented by Shimla residents in 1904, along with the President's Cup—will embark on a roadshow later today, traversing key city landmarks to heighten excitement among football fans.

During the event, Chief Minister Sangma expressed gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for selecting Shillong as a venue for the tournament. He noted that eight matches will take place at the JN Sports Complex, emphasizing last year's successful hosting and promising an equally vibrant atmosphere this year, with more local teams participating to engage the fans of Shillong and Meghalaya.

Shakliar Warjri highlighted the state's deep-rooted passion for football, recalling the enthusiasm during the previous Durand Cup. He assured that the Government of Meghalaya is dedicated to enhancing sports facilities.

The Minister reiterated the government's commitment to building one of Asia's largest football stadiums in Mawkhanu, which will accommodate 40,000 spectators, aiming to nurture Olympians from Meghalaya.

Air Marshal Surat Singh remarked on the Durand Cup's significance as a celebration of heritage and unity, commending the Indian Armed Forces' involvement in this iconic event that fosters community spirit and inspires youth. He expressed gratitude to the Meghalaya Government for their support and wished all teams success in the tournament.

Lt. Gen. Sanjay Malik reflected on the Durand Cup's rich history, noting its resurgence in recent years under the Eastern Command's guidance. He acknowledged the Meghalaya Government's crucial role in facilitating the tournament and wished all participating teams the best.

The trophy roadshow will commence from the State Convention Centre, passing through various city locations, including Camel Back Road, IGP – All Saints Church, and ending at Khyndailad, where a performance by the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project and the Territorial Army Battalion Band will welcome the trophies.

Eight matches are scheduled in Shillong, starting on July 26, featuring a thrilling derby between city rivals Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC, alongside defending champions NorthEast United FC, promising exciting northeast derbies.

The Malaysia Services team will add an international dimension to the tournament. Last season, Shillong Lajong had an impressive run, topping Group F ahead of FC Goa and defeating Kolkata's East Bengal SC in the quarter-finals before falling to NorthEast United in the semi-finals.