Archive · 24 Jul 2026
Bhaichung Bhutia praises Durand Cup expansion
The Durand Cup is a very old and important football tournament.
Bhaichung Bhutia, a famous Indian footballer, thinks it's great that the tournament is now being played in many cities.
He wants one match to be played in Siliguri because it's a place where people love football.
The tournament starts on July 25 and will have teams playing in Kolkata, Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong, and Guwahati.
The first match is between two big teams from Kolkata, Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC.
Bhaichung Bhutia praised the Durand Cup's expansion to multiple cities.
He requested that one group match be held in Siliguri.
The 135th Durand Cup starts on July 25 and ends on August 23.
The tournament features 24 teams across six groups in five host cities.
The opening match is the Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC.
- Who
- Bhaichung Bhutia, former India football captain
- What
- Praised the Durand Cup and requested matches in Siliguri
- When
- Ahead of the 135th Durand Cup
- Where
- Siliguri, Kolkata, Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong, Guwahati
- Why
- To support the tournament's prestige and develop local football
Expanding Durand Cup
Local Football Development
Tournament Prestige
Expanding Durand Cup
The Durand Cup is a prestigious tournament that deserves support from major clubs.
Local Football Development
Hosting matches in various cities can help develop football at the grassroots level.
Inclusivity
Expanding Durand Cup
Expanding the tournament to multiple cities increases its reach and prestige.
Local Football Development
Bringing the tournament to regions like Siliguri can foster local talent and interest in football.
- Tournament Name
- Durand Cup
- Edition
- 135th
- Start Date
- July 25
- End Date
- August 23
- Number of Teams
- 24
- Host Cities
- Kolkata, Ranchi, Imphal, Shillong, Guwahati
- Opening Match
- Kolkata Derby (Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs. East Bengal FC)
- Bhaichung Bhutia's Request
- One group match in Siliguri