Durand Cup 2024-25: Bengaluru FC and Mohammedan SC Headline Group B

The 2024-25 Durand Cup kicks off on July 27, featuring heavyweight contenders Bengaluru FC and Mohammedan SC in Group B. They are joined by Inter Kashi FC and Indian Navy FT. Bengaluru FC aims for a comeback season under new head coach Gerard Zaragoza, while Mohammedan SC seeks to build on their I-League triumph.

The upcoming Durand Cup 2024-25 season is set to commence on July 27, with Group B anticipating thrilling matchups. Historic contenders Bengaluru FC, the Durand Cup 2022 champions, and I-League titleholders Mohammedan SC headline this group. As per the Indian Super League (ISL) announcement, Inter Kashi FC and Indian Navy FT will complete the lineup.

Bengaluru FC, after a lackluster campaign last year, have bolstered their squad by bringing in four international players, including renowned talents such as Jorge Pereyra Diaz and Alberto Noguera. The Blues find themselves in a relatively easier group and are determined to secure a knockout stage spot. Mohammedan SC, maintaining stability with key players and head coach Andrey Chernyshov, presents the most daunting challenge for Zaragoza's side in Group B.

Inter Kashi FC, in their second season, aim to build on their debut where they finished fourth in the I-League. Despite losing Carlos Santamarina, new signings like Nikola Stojanovic and seasoned players Arindam Bhattacharya and Edmund Lalrindika could make a significant impact. Alongside these teams, Indian Navy FT joins Group B, ready to compete.

Bengaluru FC, winners of their first Durand Cup in 2022, look to recover from a disappointing last season under Spanish coach Gerard Zaragoza. Zaragoza, now entering his first full season, aims to restore the club's former glory with new acquisitions including ISL Cup victors Jorge Pereyra Diaz, Rahul Bheke, and Alberto Noguera, plus Spaniards Edgar Mendez and Pedro Capo. The team is geared up for a triumphant season.

Mohammedan SC, potentially the dark horse of Group B, targets the Durand Cup trophy after narrowly missing it in 2021. Playing at home, last season's I-League champions, under Russian head coach Chernyshov, seek a strong start to the 2024-25 season.