Manipur gears up to host 131st edition of Durand Cup

Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh today unveiled the 3 trophies of the championship during a ceremony in Imphal.

Asia’s oldest football tournament, the Durand Cup is finally coming to Manipur. As the state gears up to co-host the 131st edition of the Durand Cup along with first-time host Assam and West Bengal, Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh today unveiled the 3 trophies of the championship during a ceremony in Imphal.

Durand Cup is Asia’s oldest football tournament and is being organized by the Indian Armed Forces. In Imphal, teams will play league matches at Khuman Lampak Main Stadium from August 18.

A walk down memory lane for Chief Minister Biren Singh, a Durand Cup winner, Singh said the Cup is close to him as he won the Cup in 1981 with the BSF team playing as the left wing-back.

He also exuded pride in Manipur producing the highest number of footballers in the Indian Super League.

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff, Eastern Command, and Chairman of Durand Organising Committee, Lieutenant General KK Repswal said he is delighted to announce that Durand Cup has been officially recognized as the second qualifying cup for AFC Champions League.

Sports Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, top army officials, and prominent footballers among others were present during the ceremony.

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