Imphal: Football fever gripped Manipur on Tuesday. The 135th IndianOil Durand Cup launched at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium with a massive crowd. Thousands ignored heavy rain to pack the 35,000-capacity venue. It was a show of force.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla officially opened the tournament. Dignitaries included Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Losii Dikho, Sports Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, Lieutenant General V.M.B. Krishnan, and Lieutenant General Girish Kalia. The state government declared a half-day holiday to ensure high attendance.
The ceremony blended military precision with local tradition. Singer Silentliu Kamei performed while troops staged a flypast. Spectators watched skydiving, Mallakhamb, Kalaripayattu, and Chenda displays. Students from the Manipur Government Dance College performed alongside a Thang-Ta demonstration and a Military Jazz Band. The event highlighted the tournament’s history.
The opening match pitted local rivals TRAU FC against NEROCA FC. Both teams fought hard. Neither side could break the deadlock. The derby ended in a 0-0 draw. The Imphal leg is part of a larger schedule spanning July 25 to August 23. Matches will also take place in Kolkata, Shillong, Guwahati, and Ranchi.
Imphal will host six group-stage matches between July 28 and August 12. Alongside the local clubs, Raengdai FC and the Indian Navy Football Team complete the regional roster. Fans can watch the action on Sony LIV or Sony Ten 5. Tournament officials confirmed the final takes place in Kolkata on August 23. One attendee noted the "vibrant atmosphere" that defined the day despite the downpour.
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