Meghalaya will host key matches of the 135th Durand Cup 2026, with Shillong emerging as one of the major venues for India’s oldest football tournament. Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said the state is proud to welcome the prestigious competition and highlighted Meghalaya’s deep-rooted football culture. Furthermore, he wished the three Shillong-based clubs participating in the tournament success on the national stage. The tournament will begin on July 31 and conclude with the final on August 23, featuring 24 teams competing across five cities.
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Key Facts
- Event: 135th Durand Cup 2026
- Host City in Meghalaya: Shillong
- Main Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong
- Tournament Dates: July 31 – August 23, 2026
- Participating Teams: 24
- Groups: 6
- Host Cities: Shillong, Guwahati, Kolkata, Ranchi, and Imphal
- Shillong Matches: 8 (6 league matches, 1 quarter-final, 1 semi-final)
- Shillong Clubs: Shillong Lajong FC, Nongthymmai Sports Social & Cultural Club, Rangdajied United FC
Shillong Set to Host Major Durand Cup Matches
Meghalaya is preparing to host matches of the 135th Durand Cup 2026, with Shillong set to play a key role in India’s oldest football tournament. As preparations gather pace, excitement continues to grow among football fans across the state.
During a press conference, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said Meghalaya is honoured to host the prestigious competition. Moreover, he highlighted the state’s rich football heritage and the strong passion of its people for the sport.
Minister Extends Support to Local Clubs
The minister conveyed his best wishes to the three Shillong-based clubs participating in this year’s tournament. These include Shillong Lajong FC, Nongthymmai Sports Social & Cultural Club, and Rangdajied United FC.
Furthermore, he expressed confidence that the clubs would represent Meghalaya with distinction and deliver strong performances against teams from across the country.
Tournament Schedule and Format Announced
Senior Army officer Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa (SM), General Officer Commanding, 101 Area, outlined the tournament schedule and competition format.
According to the organisers, 24 teams will compete in the tournament. They will be divided into six groups, while matches will take place across Shillong, Guwahati, Kolkata, Ranchi, and Imphal.
Shillong to Host Eight Matches
Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will host a total of eight matches during the tournament. These include six league matches, one quarter-final, and one semi-final.
Additionally, organisers confirmed that a leading football club from Mumbai will also play in Shillong. Consequently, local supporters can expect highly competitive fixtures featuring some of the country’s top domestic teams.
Tournament Begins on July 31
The 135th edition of the Durand Cup will kick off on July 31, while the final will take place on August 23.
Meanwhile, the tournament promises exciting league-stage encounters, historic rivalries, and knockout matches. Therefore, football enthusiasts in Meghalaya are expected to witness high-quality domestic football throughout the competition.
Meghalaya’s Football Legacy
Meghalaya has long been recognised as one of India’s strongest footballing regions. Therefore, hosting the Durand Cup further strengthens the state’s reputation as a major destination for football development.
Moreover, the tournament provides an opportunity to showcase local talent, encourage youth participation, and promote sports tourism in the Northeast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the major football event being hosted in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya will host key matches of the 135th Durand Cup 2026 in Shillong.
Q2. When will the Durand Cup 2026 begin?
The tournament will begin on July 31, 2026, and conclude on August 23, 2026.
Q3. How many teams will participate?
A total of 24 teams will compete, divided into six groups.
Q4. Which Shillong clubs are participating?
Shillong Lajong FC, Nongthymmai Sports Social & Cultural Club, and Rangdajied United FC will represent the city.
Q5. How many matches will Shillong host?
Shillong will host eight matches, including six league games, one quarter-final, and one semi-final.
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