Durand Cup 2023 to Feature 43 Matches Across Four Venues

The Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, will return for its 133rd edition from July 27 to August 31, 2023. The tournament will feature 43 matches played in a round-robin league-cum-knockout format across four venues: Kolkata, Kokrajhar, Shillong, and Jamshedpur.

The 24 participating teams will be divided into six groups, with the group toppers and two best second-placed sides advancing to the knockout stage. The opening match and the final will be held at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (VYBK) in Kolkata.

Defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant will be looking to retain their title, having won the tournament a record 17 times. Other Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League teams will also be competing, along with invitational teams.

The Durand Cup has a rich history, dating back to 1888. It is one of the most prestigious football tournaments in India and has been won by some of the country's top clubs, including East Bengal, Mohun Bagan, and Bengaluru FC.

In recent years, the tournament has been expanded to include international teams. Last year, Bangladesh's Bashundhara Kings participated, and this year, more international teams are expected to join the fray.

The addition of Jamshedpur and Shillong as host venues is a significant step in the tournament's growth. It will help spread the tournament's reach to new regions and attract a wider audience.

The Durand Cup is not just a football tournament; it is a celebration of Indian football. It brings together teams from all over the country and provides a platform for young players to showcase their talent. The tournament is also a major boost for the local economy, generating revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses.

Tags: #DurandCup, #Football, #IndianFootball, #Kolkata, #Jamshedpur