Will Imphal Shine Again as Durand Cup 2025 Hosts Five States?
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Synopsis
The <b>Durand Cup 2025</b> is set to be historic, featuring <b>five states</b> for the first time, with <b>Imphal</b> returning after two years. Scheduled from <b>July 22 to August 23</b>, this tournament promises to be an exciting showcase of football talent.
Key Takeaways
- Durand Cup 2025 will feature five host states for the first time.
- Imphal returns as a host after a two-year absence.
- The tournament will occur from July 22 to August 23, 2025.
- Six venues have been selected, including two in Kolkata.
- North East United FC are the defending champions.
Kolkata, May 25 (NationPress) Asia’s oldest football tournament, the Durand Cup, is set to return for its 134th Edition, marking a historic milestone as it will be hosted across five states for the first time ever. Manipur's capital, Imphal, is making a comeback after a two-year hiatus. The organizing committee has announced that the tournament will take place from July 22 to August 23, 2025.
Kokrajhar in Assam will continue its run as a host for the third consecutive year, while Jamshedpur in Jharkhand and Shillong in Meghalaya joined as hosts last year. After moving its base from Delhi to Kolkata in 2019, the tournament will maintain its status in the capital of West Bengal for the sixth consecutive edition.
Since relocating to the East, the Durand Cup has reestablished itself as the premier football competition in the country, expanding from 16 teams to 24 teams, inclusive of all Indian Super League (ISL) teams.
Organized by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army on behalf of the three Services, the tournament uniquely matches Services teams against the best football clubs in India. Recent editions have also seen participation from foreign Army teams.
The Indian Army aims to broaden the tournament’s influence throughout the East and North-East, as reflected in this year's selection of host cities.
All State Governments and local bodies have pledged their unwavering support for this beloved tournament, which captivates the football enthusiasts of the region.
For the 134th edition, six venues have been earmarked: two in Kolkata (Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan and Kishore Bharti Krirangan), and one each in Imphal (Khuman Lampak Stadium), Ranchi (Morhabadi Stadium), Jamshedpur (JRD Tata Sports Complex), Shillong (Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium), and Kokrajhar (SAI Stadium).
North East United FC are the reigning champions, having triumphed over the title-holders Mohun Bagan in a thrilling final last year, securing their first-ever title.
Point of View
It is inspiring to see the Durand Cup grow into a significant platform for football in India, especially in the North-East. This not only promotes regional talent but also fosters national unity through sports. The commitment from local governments and communities underscores the tournament's importance to the football-loving population.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Durand Cup?
The Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament, involving various teams from India and abroad.
When is the Durand Cup 2025 scheduled?
The tournament will take place from July 22 to August 23, 2025.
How many states will host the Durand Cup 2025?
For the first time in history, the Durand Cup will be hosted across five states.
Where will the matches be held?
Matches will be held in Kolkata, Imphal, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Shillong, and Kokrajhar.
Who are the defending champions?
North East United FC are the defending champions, having won their first title last year.
