133rd Durand Cup 2024: India's Football Legacy Marches On

Tournament Overview and Expansion

• 133rd edition of Durand Cup kicks off on July 27, 2024
• Final match on August 31, 2024, at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata
• Matches held in four cities: Kolkata, Kokrajhar, Jamshedpur, and Shillong
• Jamshedpur debuts as a host city
• 24 teams participating from Indian Super League, I-League, and Armed Forces
• 43 matches in round-robin league-cum-knockout format
• Six groups of four teams each

Historical Significance and Organization

• Asia's oldest and India's most prestigious club-based football tournament
• Originated in 1888 by British Armed Forces in Shimla
• Named after Mortimer Durand, Foreign Secretary of British India
• Currently organized by Indian Army and All India Football Federation
• Mohammedan Sporting became first Indian club to win in 1940
• Three trophies awarded: Durand Cup, Shimla Trophy, and President's Cup

Venue Distribution and Match Structure

• Kolkata: Hosts opening match, semi-finals, final, and three group stages
• Kokrajhar: Hosts one group at SAI Stadium
• Jamshedpur: Hosts one group at JRD Tata Sports Complex
• Shillong: Hosts one group at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
• Group stage: Each team plays three matches
• Knockout stage: Top teams from each group and two best second-placed teams advance
• Quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final follow group stage

Notable Champions and Records

• Mohun Bagan Super Giant: Reigning champions and most successful team (17 titles)
• East Bengal: Close second with 16 titles
• Army Green: Last armed forces team to win (2016)
• Gokulam Kerala: Last I-League team to win (2019)
• Tournament open to Indian clubs since 1940

Significance in Indian Football Landscape

• Platform for showcasing emerging talent
• Unique inter-league competition featuring ISL, I-League, and armed forces teams
• Preserves India's rich football heritage
• Connects traditional military roots with modern professional football
• Potential for upsets and breakthrough performances