Football fans in Jamshedpur are in for a treat as organizers have announced free entry for all matches of the Durand Cup 2025 held in the city. This decision aims to encourage greater participation and support for the tournament, allowing more fans to experience the excitement of Asia's oldest football competition firsthand.
The 134th edition of the Durand Cup is scheduled to kick off on July 23, 2025, and run until August 23, 2025, taking place across multiple cities in India. Jamshedpur is one of the key venues, hosting several group stage matches and a quarterfinal at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. The opening ceremony in Jamshedpur is scheduled for July 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM, promising a vibrant blend of sports, culture, and military displays, including fly pasts, sky diving, and traditional Indian art forms.
The Durand Cup 2025 will feature 24 teams, including Indian Super League (ISL) clubs, I-League teams, and representation from the armed forces. This year, six ISL clubs will participate: East Bengal, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Jamshedpur FC, NorthEast United, Punjab FC, and Mohammedan Sporting Club. Foreign teams, including the Malaysian Army and Tribhuvan Army, will also add international flavor to the tournament. Jamshedpur FC, representing the host city, will be in Group C, alongside Indian Army FT, 1 Ladakh FC, and Tribhuvan Army FC.
The decision to allow free entry to all matches in Jamshedpur is expected to boost attendance and create a lively atmosphere at the JRD Tata Sports Complex. Football enthusiasts will have the opportunity to witness competitive matches without the barrier of ticket costs, fostering a greater sense of community and support for the sport.
The Durand Cup 2025 has been expanded, encompassing five states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur. Matches will be held in Kolkata, Jamshedpur, Shillong, Kokrajhar, and Imphal, showcasing the tournament's national significance. The tournament will follow a group stage format, with the top team from each group and the two best second-placed teams advancing to the quarterfinals. The knockout phase will commence on August 16, and the final is scheduled for August 23.
The increased prize pool, totaling ₹3 Crore, is another exciting development for the 2025 edition. In addition to the cash prize, individual awards such as Best Goalkeeper, Golden Boot winner, and Golden Ball winner will receive SUVs.
Jamshedpur FC has been actively preparing for the Durand Cup, with the club announcing several Indian signings to strengthen their squad. The team's management has expressed their commitment to building a strong squad for the tournament and beyond.
With free entry for all matches in Jamshedpur, the Durand Cup 2025 promises to be a memorable event for football fans in the city. The combination of competitive matches, cultural performances, and military displays will create a unique and exciting experience for all attendees.
