Durand Cup quarterfinals promise thrilling matchups
The 134th IndianOil Durand Cup quarterfinals will showcase high-intensity matches in Shillong and Kokrajhar, as Shillong Lajong, Indian Navy, Bodoland FC, and NorthEast United battle for a spot in the semifinals
Hyderabad: The 134th IndianOil Durand Cup shifts into higher gear as quarterfinal action grips Shillong and Kokrajhar, both awaiting high-intensity knockout drama, promising an exhilarating match day and electric stadium atmospheres reminiscent of the passionate crowds from the group stages.
On Saturday, the quarterfinal action kicks off in Shillong at 4:00 PM IST, where local favorites Shillong Lajong FC welcome the in-form Indian Navy FT at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Later, at 7:00 PM IST, all eyes turn to the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar, where Bodoland FC aims to extend their dream run against defending champions NorthEast United FC, cheered on by their passionate home support and the feverish football culture of Assam.
The quarterfinal curtain-raiser at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is shaping up to be a high-intensity contest. Lajong, led by Head Coach Birendra Thapa, squeezed into the knockouts as one of the best second-placed teams with aggressive and gritty performances, including a strong win over Rangdajied United and a closely fought defeat to reigning champions NorthEast United.
Attackers Everbrightson Sana and Phrangki Buam have been central to Lajong’s offensive rhythm, with the side averaging over two goals per game this season.
Indian Navy FT sailed through the group stages unbeaten, topping Group F after a dramatic late comeback against TRAU FC, a testament to their never-say-die spirit. Navy’s last-minute goals from Pintu Mahata and Sreyas V.G secured their spot, with keeper Bhaskar Roy anchoring a steadfast backline.
Their head coach, Ramesh Rai, exuded confidence ahead of the contest: “Our preparation is good, the players are in shape, motivated, and heading in the right direction. Tomorrow will be a beautiful game, and we will fight. In football, we can never expect to win, but we can always promise a good game and a good fight.”
Later, the spotlight shifts to Kokrajhar’s SAI Stadium, where first-time quarterfinalists Bodoland FC face the daunting challenge of defending champions NorthEast United FC. Bodoland, riding on the crest of local support, stormed through the group stage with a perfect nine points, including a statement 4-0 win over ITBP FT in heavy rain, with Timothi Narzary, Pedro Astray, and Gwgwmsar Gayary starring for the hosts and stunning ISL side Punjab FC 1-0. The energy and euphoria in Kokrajhar have been electric, creating one of the Durand Cup’s most intimidating home atmospheres.
Coach Vikash Panthi has instilled a blend of attacking football and defensive discipline; the side’s transition play and pacey wingers are expected to pose problems for NorthEast.
But NorthEast United arrives as the heavyweight favorite, seeking back-to-back Durand Cup titles after winning Group E, anchored by coach Juan Pedro Benali’s superb tactical approach. Benali’s tactical acumen remains sharp, with NorthEast’s experience and quality making them a formidable challenge.
Bodoland’s chance to script history and NorthEast’s quest for another Durand crown make for irresistible drama in front of an expected capacity crowd.
