IMPHAL, July 30: The 134th edition of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, commenced in Manipur on Wednesday after a two-year break due to the ethnic conflict in the northeastern state. The much-anticipated opening match of Group F saw Manipur-based football clubs TRAU FC and NEROCA FC face off at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in Imphal.
Football fans in the state were thrilled to witness the return of the historic tournament, celebrating Manipur’s long-standing legacy of sporting excellence. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, along with General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The grand event was marked by vibrant cultural performances and military displays, showcasing the spirit of unity and peace. A Defence spokesperson emphasized that the revival of this iconic tournament in Manipur reflects the healing power of sports and the collective aspiration for stability, resilience, and renewed harmony in the region.
Among the dignitaries present were Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, GOC-in-C Eastern Command and Patron, Durand Cup Organising Committee (DCOC), and Lieutenant General Abhijit Pendharkar, AVSM, YSM, GOC Spear Corps and several senior officials from the Army, paramilitary forces, and civil administration. The Army Chief also interacted with players and officials from NEROCA FC and TRAU FC before the match.
Despite the joyous atmosphere, some football fans expressed dissatisfaction over the overcrowded stadium and limited seating arrangements, which made it difficult for many spectators to move around or watch the match comfortably. Nonetheless, the overall mood remained upbeat, as locals celebrated the return of a major sporting event to their state.
Several other Group F matches, including games involving the Indian Army Football Team, are scheduled to be held at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium in the coming days. The 2025 Durand Cup tournament is set to take place from July 23 to August 23 across five cities – Imphal, Shillong, Kokrajhar, Kolkata, and Jamshedpur. In Imphal alone, six group stage matches are planned from July 30 to August 12.
