Durand Cup 2024, Group E Preview: NorthEast United FC, Odisha FC vie for top spot
The group features ISL sides NorthEast United FC and Odisha FC, alongside Bodoland FC and the Border Security Force Football Team.
The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup is underway, with the action shifting to Group E as Assam-based Bodoland FC face Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC on Tuesday.
Joining these two clubs in Group E are Odisha FC and the Border Security Force Football Team, with all group fixtures set to be played at the SAI Stadium in Kokrajhar, Assam.
The Highlanders, who reached the semi-finals in the previous edition but lost to East Bengal FC in a penalty shoot-out after a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time, will see themselves as favourites in the group given the strength of their side. Odisha FC, the other ISL side, are expected to field their reserve squad in the Durand Cup, similar to last year.
Bodoland, making their second consecutive appearance in the Durand Cup, find themselves in the same group as the Kalinga Warriors once again. The state-league team shocked Odisha FC with a 2-1 victory last year and will be eager to replicate such results this term.
The BSF FT round out the teams in Group E and will also be keen to influence the outcome of the group.
Group E
| SL No. | Teams |
| 1 | Odisha FC |
| 2 | NorthEast United FC |
| 3 | Bodoland FC |
| 4 | BSF FT |
Group E Fixtures
| No. | Match | Date | Time | Venue |
| 1 | Bodoland FC vs NorthEast United FC | 30.07.2024 | 15:00 | SAI Stadium |
| 2 | Odisha FC vs BSF FT | 03.08.2024 | 16:00 | SAI Stadium |
| 3 | Bodoland FC vs Odisha FC | 06.08.2024 | 16:00 | SAI Stadium |
| 4 | NorthEast United FC vs BSF FT | 09.08.2024 | 19:00 | SAI Stadium |
| 5 | Bodoland FC vs BSF FT | 12.08.2024 | 19:00 | SAI Stadium |
| 6 | NorthEast United FC vs Odisha FC | 16.08.2024 | 19:00 | SAI Stadium |
Group E - Talking Points
NorthEast United FC - Can the Highlanders go one step better?
NorthEast United FC showcased impressive football in the Durand Cup last year, marking Juan Pedro Benali's debut assignment with the Highlanders. Under his guidance, the team displayed a cohesive and dynamic style of play that captured the attention of many. Since then, the ISL side has only grown stronger, successfully retaining their core players and their Spanish head coach.
Building on the momentum from last season, NorthEast United FC have been focusing on refining their tactics and strengthening their squad depth. With a solid foundation and a clear vision, NorthEast United FC will be determined to elevate their game and strive for their first-ever silverware in this edition of the Durand Cup.
Odisha FC - Young guns ready to make their mark once again
The young talents of Odisha FC will have another golden opportunity to make a strong impression at this prestigious tournament. The Kalinga Warriors have added a few promising prodigies to strengthen their reserve squad in the current transfer window.
Last year, the young Odisha FC side managed to secure one win in the group stage. This time, they are determined to surpass that achievement and advance to the next round.
