The two Kolkata giants will renew their century-old battle at the Salt Lake Stadium on July 25.
| Photo Credit: FILE PHOTO: ISL
The 135th edition of the Durand Cup football tournament will kick off with Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal renewing their century-old battle at the Salt Lake Stadium on July 25.
The competition will feature 24 teams divided into six groups across five host cities. As in recent years, Kolkata will remain the tournament’s hub, hosting two groups, the opening match, two quarterfinals, a semifinal and the final on August 23.
Ranchi will make its debut as a host city while Imphal, Shillong and Guwahati will stage the remaining group-stage fixtures.
Although several Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have opted out of this year’s tournament, the Durand Cup will still feature a mix of ISL teams, Services sides, regional champions, emerging clubs and Sri Lankan outfit Defenders FC.
The six group winners and the two best second-placed teams will advance to the knockout rounds. The quarterfinals are scheduled for August 16 and 17, followed by the semifinals on August 19 and 20.
Published – July 03, 2026 08:18 pm IST
