Diamond Harbour FC, making their Durand Cup debut, pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Mohammedan SC in their opening Group B match at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on July 28, 2025. Luka Majcen's late goal secured the win for the I-League 2 champions in a thrilling encounter.
The match began with both teams eager to make their mark. Mohammedan SC, who narrowly missed out on the knockout stage last season, were looking to start strong. Diamond Harbour, coached by Kibu Vicuna and featuring players with ISL experience like Jobby Justin, Mirshad Michu, and Melroy Assisi, aimed to make a statement in their first Durand Cup appearance.
Mohammedan SC took the lead in the 36th minute against the run of play. Adison Singh capitalized on a mistake by Diamond Harbour goalkeeper Mirshad Michu, shooting from the right side of the box. Michu's attempt to save the shot resulted in the ball being deflected into the back of the net, giving Mohammedan SC a 1-0 advantage.
Diamond Harbour FC responded in the second half, equalizing in the 51st minute through a Ruatkima header. The match appeared to be heading for a draw as both teams battled hard. However, late drama ensued when Luka Majcen scored the winning goal for Diamond Harbour in the 90+10th minute. Majcen's initial shot was saved by Mohammedan SC goalkeeper Subhajit, but the ball rebounded back to Majcen's feet, and he slotted it into an empty net.
The victory was significant for Diamond Harbour FC, as it put them at the top of Group B, which also includes Mohun Bagan Super Giant and BSF FT. Mohammedan SC, who debuted in the ISL last season and finished at the bottom of the table, will be aiming to bounce back in their remaining group matches.
The 134th edition of the Durand Cup, which is the oldest football tournament in Asia and the third-oldest in the world, began on July 23 and will conclude on August 23. The tournament features 24 teams divided into six groups. The group winners and the two best second-placed teams will advance to the quarter-finals. Mohun Bagan SG, the reigning Indian Super League champions, are the most successful team in Durand Cup history with 17 titles. NorthEast United FC are the reigning Durand Cup champions.
Other matches in the Durand Cup 2025 include Jamshedpur FC against the Indian Army FT, and Shillong Lajong FC against Rangdajied United FC. The Durand Cup 2025 is being telecast on the Sony Sports Network and streamed live on the SonyLiv app and website.
