Besides the group stage matches, Shillong will also host one quarterfinal and a semifinal of the Durand Cup 2025, it was confirmed by the state government today.
It was also announced that a Malaysian Army team will be the fourth side in Group E, which also features Shillong Lajong, Rangdajied United and defending champions NorthEast United.
The three trophies of the Durand Cup tournament were unveiled in Shillong today in the presence of Army top brass, the Chief Minister, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs and Meghalaya Football Association president.
It had been reported that an army team from Indonesia would take part but that has apparently fallen through and a squad from Malaysia is taking their place.
Group E games will be held at the JN Stadium here, beginning on July 26.
After a tremendous run in 2024’s edition, Lajong were ousted by NorthEast United in the semifinals, with the Indian Super League club then going on to win the title over Mohun Bagan in Kolkata.
The CM flagged off a roadshow featuring the trophies – the Durand Cup, President’s Cup and the Shimla Trophy – that toured Shillong today and will also travel to Nongstoin and Tura.
There were several speeches but nothing new was said – the army and government thanked each other for bringing the tournament to Meghalaya for the second year running and the CM listed all the investment his government has made in the development of sport.
