135th Durand Cup Opens in Shillong with Shillong Lajong FC Victory
The 135th edition of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, got underway on Friday with hosts Shillong Lajong FC registering a comfortable 2-0 victory over Nongkseh SS & CC in the opening match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.
The tournament was formally inaugurated in the presence of Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar. Also attending the opening ceremony were Lieutenant General V.M.B. Krishnan, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, and Patron of the Durand Cup Organising Committee, along with senior military officers, civil dignitaries and invited guests.
The opening ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing the rich heritage of Meghalaya, adding colour and enthusiasm to the commencement of the country’s premier football tournament.
Shillong Lajong FC made an impressive start to their campaign by defeating Nongkseh SS & CC 2-0, delighting the home crowd and setting the stage for an exciting edition of the Durand Cup.
The 135th Durand Cup will witness teams from across the country competing for one of Indian football’s most prestigious trophies over the coming weeks.
