134th edition of Durand Cup kicks off in Assam's Kokrajhar with grandeur, Sunil Chhetri graces opening ceremony

The 134th edition of the historic Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest and most prestigious football tournament, commenced with much fanfare at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar on Sunday, July 27. For the third consecutive time, the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) is playing host to this celebrated event, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Indian Army and the BTR government.

 

The stadium witnessed a packed audience comprising football enthusiasts from across the region. The opening ceremony was a visual treat, with traditional cultural performances celebrating the ethnic diversity and rich heritage of Bodoland.

 

Indian football icon and former national team captain Sunil Chhetri was the guest of honour. In a heartwarming gesture, Chhetri interacted with fans and ceremonially kicked off the tournament, even tossing footballs into the stands, sparking jubilant reactions from the crowd.

 

Dignitaries in attendance included BTR Chief Pramod Boro, Assam Football Association General Secretary Sangrang Brahma, and senior officials from the Indian Army. Their presence underscored the importance of the Durand Cup not just as a sporting event but also as a symbol of unity and national pride.

 

The tournament opener featured a high-energy clash between Indo-Tibetan Border Police Football Team (ITBP FT) and Karbi Anglong Morning Star Club. ITBP FT emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, having scored both goals in the first half before Morning Star mounted a comeback attempt with a solitary second-half goal.

 

With its legacy dating back to 1888, the Durand Cup remains a hallmark of football excellence and regional integration. Kokrajhar’s spirited welcome to the tournament reaffirms its growing status as a football-loving hub in Northeast India.