The official release of the fixtures for the historic 135th edition of the Durand Cup has set the stage for an explosive start to the Indian football season. In a breathtaking decision by the organizing committee, record 17-time champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant will lock horns with arch-rivals East Bengal FC in the tournament's very first match.
The Mariners are entering this campaign with plenty to prove. Their recent Indian Super League journey ended in deep disappointment as East Bengal snatched the league crown on the final matchday. Now, the Green and Maroon Brigade has a golden opportunity to turn the tables and reclaim their dominance, starting with the biggest match of the group stage.
High Stakes in Group A
The blockbuster Kolkata Derby will take place on July 25 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, commonly known as the Salt Lake Stadium. With kickoff set for 17:00 IST, this iconic fixture will immediately establish the hierarchy in Group A. Both legacy clubs are among the favorites to lift the trophy this year alongside defending champions NorthEast United FC.
However, the group is far from a simple two-team race. Alongside the Kolkata giants, Group A features the CISF Protectors and South United FC. Underestimating these sides could prove fatal for the heavyweights. South United FC has built a strong reputation for nurturing fearless young talent, while the CISF Protectors are fully capable of causing a massive upset if the giants lose focus after the emotional high of the derby.
Crucial Group Stage Dates
Following the opening match, the Mariners will shift focus to their second group fixture against South United FC on August 4 at 19:00 IST, staying under the floodlights of the Salt Lake Stadium.
They will wrap up their initial round-robin stage on August 10 against the CISF Protectors at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan. With only the group toppers and the two best second-placed teams across the six groups advancing to the knockout rounds, every single point is critical.
Mohun Bagan SG Full Schedule
| Fixture | Date & Time (IST) | Venue |
| Mohun Bagan SG vs East Bengal | July 25, 17:00 | VYBK Stadium |
| Mohun Bagan SG vs South United FC | August 4, 19:00 | VYBK Stadium |
| Mohun Bagan SG vs CISF Protectors | August 10, 16:00 | KBK Stadium |
As Asia's oldest football tournament gets underway, the Mariners have their roadmap to glory laid out. The question remains whether they can channel their past disappointment into a triumphant run, starting with the ultimate test against their bitter rivals.
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