KOKRAJHAR: The wait is finally over as Assam’s Kokrajha— ‘City of Peace’— is geared up to host the first of seven matches of the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup at SAI Stadium on July 30.
Kokrajhar will host its first match between Northeast United FC and Bodoland FC at SAI Stadium on July 30.
A total of seven matches will be held in the district, including a quarterfinal and six Group E encounters.
The Indian Army, in close coordination with the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), has left no stone unturned to make the 133rd edition of Asia’s oldest football tournament a grand success.
Notably, the stadium has undergone extensive renovations in the run-up to the tournament, including the upgrade of floodlights for night matches and the installation of a state-of-the-art drainage system to ensure smooth conduct of matches even during rain.
A number of thrilling military displays from the three services of the Indian Armed Forces and a cultural fiesta by the locals are also lined up to add to the festivities during the opening ceremony.
The opening ceremony will kick off at 3 pm on July 30 at SAI Stadium and gates will be opened at 12 pm.
These celebrations coincide with the Anti-Terrorism Day, which is celebrated in the Bodoland Territorial Region on July 30, marking the return of normalcy, peace, and prosperity.
Football fans will be treated to an exciting opening match between Bodoland FC and North East United FC, featuring skilled players and experienced coaches.
The prestigious football tourney will be held in other cities including Kolkata, Jamshedpur and Shillong.
A total of 24 teams, including the three services teams and two Services teams from Nepal and Bangladesh, are participating in the tournament, vying for the three coveted Durand Cup Trophies.
While Kokrajhar is hosting the football tournament for the second consecutive year, Kolkata has been hosting the Durand Cup for the last five years.
