Football

The 133rd Durand Cup, India's oldest football tournament, is set to kick off the 2024-25 season on July 27 in Kolkata. Defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant will face Downtown Heroes FC in the opening match.The tournament will feature 24 teams competing in a round-robin league format, with six group winners and two best second-placed teams advancing to the knockout round. Group A includes two record-holding title winners: Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC.Mohun Bagan SG, the reigning champions, have bolstered their squad with notable foreign signings, including Jamie Maclaren, Greg Stewart, Alberto Rodriguez, and Tom Aldred. They will aim to retain their title and continue their trophy-winning spree.East Bengal FC, the other Kolkata giant, has also built a formidable squad, acquiring the services of last season's standout performers, including Dimitrios Diamantakos, Madih Talal, and Jeakson Singh. They will aim to close the gap and secure their 17th Durand Cup win, leveling the tally with their arch-rivals.Group A also includes Downtown Heroes FC, a relatively new club founded in 2020, and Indian Air Force FT, representing the armed forces from India. Their participation could add an element of surprise to the group stage.The two finalists from the 2023 Durand Cup, Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC, are once again pitted in the same group for the third consecutive time. The result of their high-stakes encounter could determine which Kolkata-based team advances to the knockout rounds.The Durand Cup is a prestigious tournament that has been won by some of India's most famous clubs, including Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal FC, and Bengaluru FC. It is a major event in the Indian football calendar and provides a platform for young players to showcase their talent.

Emami East Bengal, the Kolkata football giant, has unveiled a star-studded squad ahead of the upcoming season, aiming for greater success after finishing ninth in the previous Indian Super League (ISL) edition. The team has significantly reinforced its roster with the addition of Greek striker Dimitrios Diamantakos, French playmaker Madih Talal, India international Jeakson Singh, and emerging talent David Lalhlansanga.Coach Carles Cuadrat expressed optimism about the team's prospects, acknowledging the challenges faced last season due to injuries and suspensions. "We hope we can put up a better challenge and performance as we have a bigger squad with bigger names," he said.The team's immediate focus is on the Durand Cup and the AFC Champions League preliminary stage match against Turkmenistan's FC Altyn Asyr on August 14. Cuadrat emphasized the importance of depth in the squad, which he believes will be crucial for success in both competitions.Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has strengthened its foreign contingent by signing Australian World Cupper Jamie Maclaren, a five-time A-League Golden Boot winner. Maclaren's arrival adds firepower to Bagan's attack, which already boasts the likes of Dimitri Petratos, Greg Stewart, and Jason Cummings.

The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup, Asia's oldest and the world's fifth oldest football tournament, is set to kick off on July 27th in Kolkata. The tournament will feature 24 teams divided into six groups, with matches taking place in four cities: Kolkata, Kokrajhar, Shillong, and Jamshedpur.The inaugural match will see reigning champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant face off against Downtown Heroes FC of Kashmir. The much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal will take place on August 18th, serving as the final group game.Group A, B, and C matches will be played in Kolkata, while Jamshedpur will host Group D matches. Jamshedpur FC will face Bangladesh Army Football Team in the first match in Jamshedpur.Group E games will commence in Kokrajhar on July 30th, with local side Bodoland FC taking on ISL side NorthEast United FC. Shillong, another first-time host, will see Shillong Lajong FC take on Nepal's Tribhuvan Army Football Team in the opening fixture of Group F.The tournament will feature a total of 43 matches, with the six group toppers and two best second-placed teams qualifying for the knockouts. The Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kishore Bharati Krirangan, JRD Tata Sports Complex, SAI Stadium, and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host the matches.The Durand Cup has a rich history, having been first played in 1888. It is a prestigious tournament that has seen some of the biggest names in Indian football participate over the years. The tournament is expected to attract a large number of fans and generate significant excitement in the Indian football community.

The Durand Cup 2024, Asia's oldest football tournament, is set to kick off on July 27th, with defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant and archrivals East Bengal FC drawn together in the same group. The tournament will feature 24 teams from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, international teams, and the Armed Forces.This year, Jamshedpur and Shillong join Kokrajhar and Kolkata as host cities, with each hosting group stage fixtures. Kolkata, the main venue, will host three groups, while Jamshedpur, Shillong, and Kokrajhar will each host one group.The tournament will follow a round-robin league format with knockout stages, culminating in the final at Kolkata's Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan. In total, 43 matches will be played, and the top teams from each group, along with the two best second-placed teams, will advance to the knockout phase.Group A, hosted in Kolkata, features Mohun Bagan SG, East Bengal FC, Indian Air Force FT, and Downtown Heroes FC. Group B, also in Kolkata, includes Bengaluru FC, Inter Kashi FC, Indian Navy FT, and Mohammedan SC. Group C, the third Kolkata-based group, consists of Kerala Blasters FC, Mumbai City FC, Punjab FC, and CISF Protectors FT.Group D, hosted in Jamshedpur, features Jamshedpur FC, Chennaiyin FC, Indian Army FT, and Bangladesh Army FT. Group E, in Kokrajhar, includes Odisha FC, NorthEast United FC, Bodoland FC, and BSF FT. Group F, hosted in Shillong, consists of FC Goa, Hyderabad FC, Shillong Lajong FC, and Tribhuvan Army FC.International teams Tribhuvan Army FC from Nepal and Bangladesh Army Football Team will return to the tournament after participating in the previous edition. The tournament promises exciting matches and intense rivalries, with the top teams in India vying for the coveted Durand Cup trophy.

TK Chathunni: A Legendary Footballer and CoachTK Chathunni, a renowned former footballer and coach, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 75 in Kochi after a brief illness. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence both on and off the field.As a player, Chathunni was a highly skilled defender who represented India in six international matches, including the Merdeka Tournament in 1973. He played for several top clubs, including EME Centre, Vasco Club, and Orkay Mills, and also represented Services in the Santosh Trophy.However, it was as a coach that Chathunni truly made his mark. He is credited with discovering and nurturing some of India's greatest football talents, including IM Vijayan, Bruno Coutinho, and Jo Paul Anchery.Chathunni's coaching career spanned decades and included stints with numerous clubs, including Mohun Bagan, Salgaocar FC, Dempo Sports Club, and Churchill Brothers. He holds the distinction of coaching the highest number of clubs in India.His most notable achievement as a coach came in 1997-98 when he led Mohun Bagan to their maiden National Football League (NFL) title. He also coached the Kerala Santosh Trophy team and Kerala Police.Chathunni's passing has been met with deep sorrow and tributes from the Indian football fraternity. AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey described him as "a dependable defender and later a top-class coach." AIFF Acting Secretary General M Satyanarayan said, "His death has created a void in Indian football."TK Chathunni's legacy as a footballer and coach will continue to inspire generations to come. His contributions to Indian football will never be forgotten.

Sunil Chhetri's journey to becoming India's leading scorer began with a humble contract worth Rs 6500 at a Delhi-based club. His childhood coach, Mohammad Sajid, recalls the moment he handed Chhetri a token amount of Rs 1000, which filled the young player with immense joy.Sajid, who is now the CEO of City Football Club, spotted Chhetri at Mamta Modern Senior Secondary School in Vikaspuri. He recognized Chhetri's potential and offered him his first club contract. In his debut season, Chhetri made an immediate impact by winning the emerging player of the year award.Sajid played a pivotal role in Chhetri's early career. He facilitated a meeting between Chhetri and Nageshwar Rao, a player from City Football Club, which led to Chhetri's move to Mohun Bagan in 1999. Sajid advised Chhetri to remain focused and pursue a professional career outside Delhi, believing that it would be beneficial for his growth.Chhetri's hard work and dedication paid off as he went on to become India's leading scorer with 94 goals in 150 matches. Sajid expressed his pride in Chhetri's achievements, stating that he has played at the highest level for an extended period, which is a testament to his talent and determination.Sajid believes that India currently lacks a player who can replace Chhetri's caliber. He hopes that Chhetri will continue to inspire young players and contribute to Indian football in the future, possibly by joining the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and working towards the development of the sport in the country.

Mumbai City FC emerged victorious in the Indian Super League (ISL) final, defeating Mohun Bagan Super Giant 3-1 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. The triumph marked Mumbai City's second ISL title, having previously won in 2020-21.The first half saw Mohun Bagan take the lead through Jason Cummings' goal just before the break. However, Mumbai City rallied in the second half, with Pereyra Diaz equalizing in the 53rd minute. The momentum shifted in Mumbai City's favor, and Bipin Singh gave them the lead in the 81st minute. Jakub Vojtus sealed the victory for Mumbai City in injury time.Mumbai City dominated possession throughout the match, enjoying 66% of the ball. They created several chances in the first half but failed to capitalize. After the break, they showed greater incisiveness and determination, breaking down Mohun Bagan's defense.Mohun Bagan, the home favorite, started the match brightly but faded after the equalizer. They struggled to create clear-cut chances and were unable to match Mumbai City's intensity in the second half.The victory was a testament to Mumbai City's resilience and tactical adaptability. They overcame a slow start and showed their class in the second half. The title triumph is a significant achievement for the club, which has established itself as a force in Indian football.

In the twilight of a coaching career spanning four continents and 34 years, Antonio Lopez Habas has found a fitting finale in India. The 66-year-old Mohun Bagan Super Giant coach is now one game away from completing a remarkable season, with the ISL trophy within reach.Standing between Mohun Bagan and glory is Mumbai City FC, a team that has matched their brilliance throughout the season. Both teams topped the league standings with identical points, wins, goals, and clean sheets. Mumbai City FC boasts the league's tightest defense, but Mohun Bagan breached it in their final league encounter to secure the league shield.Both teams have overcome adversity this season. Mumbai City FC seamlessly transitioned under Petr Kratky after Des Buckingham's departure, while Mohun Bagan found renewed belief under Habas after a string of losses led to Juan Ferrando's sacking.The finalists shared 2-1 wins in the league phase, and both have a player suspended for the final. Mohun Bagan will miss Armando Sadiku, while Mumbai City FC will be without Yoëll van Nieff and possibly Akash Mishra.Mumbai City FC has relied heavily on Indian talent this season, with Vikram Partap Singh and Lallianzula Chhangte leading the charge. Chhangte's versatility and ability to play centrally pose a significant threat to Mohun Bagan's defense.Mohun Bagan's attack is spearheaded by Petratos, Cummings, and Sadiku, but Manvir Singh, Colaco, and Samad have also contributed crucial goals. Joni Kauko has been the anchor in midfield since his return from injury."There are no favorites in a final," said Habas. "We have a good team, but I am confident we have the team to match them," added Kratky.The final will be played in front of a partisan crowd of over 60,000 Mohun Bagan fans at the Salt Lake stadium. Mumbai City FC is prepared for the atmosphere, having played in the Durand Cup and the away league game at the same venue.The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams. The ISL trophy awaits, and both Mohun Bagan and Mumbai City FC will give it their all to etch their names in history.

Mohun Bagan, the Kolkata giants, stand on the cusp of history as they prepare to face Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) final on Saturday. The Mariners have already secured the Durand Cup and the League Winners Shield this season, and a victory in the ISL would complete a historic treble.The match will be played at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium, which is expected to be packed with 62,000 partisan Mohun Bagan fans. The atmosphere is sure to be electric as the Mariners look to cap off their fairytale season with a memorable triumph.Mohun Bagan's journey to the final has been a remarkable one. After a disappointing start to the season, they appointed Antonio Habas as their head coach, and the Spaniard has transformed the team's fortunes. Under Habas, the Mariners have played with a renewed sense of purpose and determination, and they have been virtually unstoppable in recent months.Mumbai City FC, on the other hand, will be looking to spoil Mohun Bagan's party. The Islanders have been one of the most consistent teams in the ISL, and they will be confident of their chances of winning the title. Mumbai City FC have already defeated Mohun Bagan once this season, in the ISL semi-finals, and they will be hoping to repeat that performance in the final.The match is expected to be a close and exciting affair. Both teams have quality players in their ranks, and they will be desperate to win the ISL title. Mohun Bagan will be buoyed by the support of their home crowd, but Mumbai City FC will be determined to prove that they are the best team in the league.