The historic 133rd IndianOil Durand Cup officially kicked off in Shillong on Friday, marking a momentous occasion for the football-loving city. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K. Sangma, at the newly renovated Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The opening match featured local team Shillong Lajong FC against Nepal’s Tribhuvan Army Football Team. Shillong Lajong made a triumphant return to the stadium, with Wadjied Ryngkhlem’s early goal securing a 1-0 victory and the first three points of the tournament.
The ceremony began with a vibrant display of cultural performances. Notable attendees included Air Marshal SP Dharkar, PVSM, AVSM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, and Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari, UYSM, AVSM, SM, GOC-in-Chief, Eastern Command. Also present were Lieutenant General Sanjay Malik, GOC 101 Area, and other distinguished dignitaries.
The festivities featured a dazzling array of performances, including a Bhangra and Gatka showcase by the 2nd and 13th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment, a thrilling motorcycle stunt show by the Corps of Military Police, and a lively dance performance on the song “Badloo Ram Ka Badan” by the boys of the Assam Regimental Centre. The grand finale was a musical ensemble performed by over 800 schoolchildren from Shillong, adding a poignant touch to the celebration.
The Chief Minister also met with the players before the game and symbolically inaugurated the Group F matches, which will all be played in Shillong. The opening ceremony included the formal marching in of the Tournament Flags and Trophies.
Throughout the day, attendees were entertained by musical acts such as Gracyl and Dapelai, Lamphang & Choir, and Cynda, who captivated the crowd with their performances during breaks.
The 133rd Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest and the world’s third-oldest football tournament is now hosted in Shillong for the first time. The tournament, originally held in Shimla in 1888 and later moved to New Delhi and Kolkata, now finds its stage in the scenic Meghalayan capital. The Durand Cup is renowned for its tradition and history, with winners receiving three trophies: the Durand Cup, the Shimla Trophy, and the President’s Cup.
As Group F matches continue in Shillong, the excitement for the beautiful game of football remains palpable. Fans and players alike look forward to a series of memorable moments as the tournament unfolds over the coming weeks. (PR)