Shillong, July 31: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium came alive Friday evening as Shillong hosted the inauguration of the 135th Indian Oil Durand Cup, marking the third straight year the city is a host venue for Asia’s oldest football tournament.
The opening match of Group-E saw Shillong Lajong FC defeat Nongkseh SS&CC 2-0 before 11,234 fans. Everbrightson Sana broke the deadlock in the 68th minute, and Tremiki Lamurong sealed the win in the 84th to give the home side a strong start. Shillong will host all Group-E games, one quarter-final and one semi-final.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Ministers Lahkmen Rymbui and Marcuise N. Marak, senior Armed Forces commanders, DGP Idashisha Nongrang and other top officials attended the ceremony and met players ahead of kickoff.
The opening show blended military might with local culture. The Assam Regimental Centre’s Army Brass, Pipe and Jazz bands opened the evening, followed by Gatka by Sikh Light Infantry, Gorkha Khukri Dance, combat demos by North-East Warriors, and Jhanj Pathak by Maratha Light Infantry. The Akash Ganga skydivers and a 206 Army Aviation flypast drew loud cheers. Local voices including Gracyl Ropmay, Ahaia Sangma and the Khmih Creative Society Choir performed, and Agniveers closed halftime with “Badloo Ram Ka Badan”.
Officials said hosting the Durand Cup reflects Meghalaya’s push to become India’s football capital. With the 39th National Games set for 2027, the state is investing ₹1900 crore in sports infrastructure by 2028. Programs like the STAR athlete assessment and Chief Minister’s Mission Football, training 10,000+ players, aim to build grassroots talent statewide.
The tournament is being pitched not just as matches, but as part of a long-term vision to create opportunities for youth and put Meghalaya on India’s sporting map.
