Underprepared East Bengal and Mohun Bagan kick-off new season with Durand Cup opener

The 135th Durand Cup begins with a historic Kolkata derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, marking the first time the tournament has opened with the iconic clash. Both teams, under new coaches Antonio Lopez Habas and Panagiotis Dilmperis, head into the match underprepared after just four days of training. With few foreign players available, Indian stars are expected to take centre stage.

Underprepared East Bengal and Mohun Bagan kick-off new season with Durand Cup opener
The 135th Durand Cup begins with a historic Kolkata derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, marking the first time the tournament has opened with the iconic clash. Both teams, under new coaches Antonio Lopez Habas and Panagiotis Dilmperis, head into the match underprepared after just four days of training. With few foreign players available, Indian stars are expected to take centre stage.