A Look at the contenders of the Durand Cup!

The 2024 Durand Cup commenced on 27 July, marking the start of the 2024-25 football season. Teams from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, and the states and armed forces (domestic and foreign) are competing in the 133rd edition of Asia’s oldest football tournament. With intense competition from top teams, this edition promises excitement. Last year's winners, Mohun Bagan SG, are favourites to defend their title but face a tough challenge from East Bengal FC, last year's finalists. Mumbai City FC, Odisha FC, and other teams boast talented young players capable of winning the title. Here are the top five favourites to win the Durand Cup 2024:

Mohammedan SC

The 2023-24 I-League winners and new Indian Super League entrants, Mohammedan SC, could be dark horses in the upcoming Durand Cup. With limited knowledge about them among ISL teams, the Kolkata-based club’s element of surprise might work to their advantage. Players like Alexis Gomez and Mirjalol Kasimov will be eager to display their skills and build momentum ahead of the new ISL season. Mohammedan SC's potential to make a significant impact in the Durand Cup adds an intriguing dimension to the competition.

East Bengal FC

East Bengal FC reached the final of the 2023 Durand Cup but fell to their arch-rivals Mohun Bagan SG. Motivated by their performance last year, Carles Cuadrat’s squad is determined to advance further this time. With new signings like Jeakson Singh, Madih Talal, and Dimitrios Diamantakos, the Red & Gold Brigade has strengthened their lineup and emerged as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. Their blend of experience and fresh talent makes them a formidable contender in the upcoming tournament.

Kerala Blasters FC

Kerala Blasters FC, with their wealth of talent, will field their first team in the 2024 Durand Cup, making them strong contenders for the title. The squad’s depth and experience position them as a formidable force in the tournament. Newcomers like Alexandre Coeff and Noah Sadaoui are eager to make their mark and help the Yellow Army secure their first major trophy. With a well-rounded team and fresh talent ready to contribute, Kerala Blasters FC is poised to be a significant force in this year’s competition.

Mohun Bagan SG

Mohun Bagan SG is a top contender for the 2024 Durand Cup, aiming to defend their title from last year. Despite the pressure, the Mariners possess the quality and tactical savvy to navigate challenging situations. The recent signing of Greg Stewart has strengthened their squad, tipping the scales in their favor. As they continue to enhance their lineup with high-profile players, Mohun Bagan SG's blend of experience and new talent positions them as strong favorites to lift the trophy once again.

Bengaluru FC

Bengaluru FC has a strong chance of winning the 2024 Durand Cup. The Blues will field their senior team to replicate their success from the 2022 edition, when they clinched the title. The addition of Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Alberto Noguera has significantly bolstered the squad, enhancing its quality. Attention will also be on Sunil Chhetri, especially following his emotional retirement from international football. With such high-caliber talent on board, Bengaluru FC is poised to be a formidable contender in the tournament, making them a team to watch closely.

While the actual winner is yet to be decided, these five clubs have a fair chance of taking home the Durand Cup.