The prestigious Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, is just around the corner with its 133rd edition featuring a lineup of exciting fixtures. Across six groups, a total of 43 matches will be played, involving teams from the Indian Super League (ISL), I-League, overseas clubs, and teams from the Armed Forces.

The format sees the winners of each group and the top two second-placed teams to progress to the knockout stages.

As the season opener approaches, here's a selection of standout fixtures to keep an eye on from each group.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs East Bengal FC

The rematch between last season’s Durand Cup finalists is set for August 18th at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. Mohun Bagan Super Giant emerged victorious in the previous encounter at the same venue, defeating arch-rivals East Bengal FC to clinch their 17th title.

Also read: Durand Cup 2024, Group A Preview

Despite Mohun Bagan SG's triumph in the final, they were beaten by East Bengal FC in the group stages, marking the Red & Golds' first victory over their rivals in four years. The historical significance of the Kolkata Derby, coupled with the competitive history between these two legendary teams in the tournament, makes this Group A fixture highly anticipated.

Fans across both clubs will be excited to see the continuance of this long-standing rivalry on the field once again.

Mohammedan SC vs Bengaluru FC

The match between Bengaluru FC and Mohammedan SC is set to be the highlight of Group B, which also includes Indian Navy and Inter Kashi. Bengaluru FC, under the leadership of Gerard Zaragoza who took over midway through the 2023-24 season, have strengthened their squad significantly from last year. They are aiming for the top spot in the group.

However, Mohammedan SC, the reigning I-League champions from Kolkata, are likely to present a formidable challenge. With a strong attacking lineup boasting talented players, they have the capability to trouble any opposition. This sets the stage for an intriguing matchup with both teams setting sights on the top spot.

Kerala Blasters FC vs Mumbai City FC

Kerala Blasters FC are set to face Mumbai City FC on August 1st at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, in what is anticipated as a key fixture in the tournament. Group C, which includes three ISL teams including Punjab FC, is widely considered the toughest in the competition.

Mumbai City FC, the reigning ISL champions, boast a strong core squad, while Kerala Blasters FC have undergone significant changes, including appointing a new head coach this summer.

The approach of Kerala Blasters FC's coach Mikael Stahre against Mumbai City FC's aggressive and attacking style will be a focal point of this intriguing contest, making it interesting for both fans and neutrals alike.

Odisha FC vs NorthEast United FC

Odisha FC and NorthEast United FC are scheduled to face off in Group E at the SAI stadium in Kokrajhar on August 16th. Last season, Odisha FC exited in the group stages with a reserve squad, while NorthEast United FC reached the semi-finals before being eliminated by East Bengal FC.

Expectations are high for Odisha FC following their successful 2023-24 season, where they achieved significant results in both the league and AFC Cup. Meanwhile, NorthEast United FC have maintained their core squad from last season under the leadership of head coach Juan Pedro Benali, who guided them to several surprising results.

With both teams possessing skilled players adept at scoring goals, this match promises to be an engaging and potentially high-scoring encounter.

Jamshedpur FC vs Chennaiyin FC

The match between Jamshedpur FC and Chennaiyin FC at the JRD Sports Complex on August 4 promises to be a compelling encounter.

Chennaiyin FC, having reached the ISL playoffs last season, will face Jamshedpur FC, who were contenders for a playoff spot before finishing 10th in the league standings. Both teams have bolstered their squads with new additions for the upcoming season. The tactical duel between head coaches Khalid Jamil and Owen Coyle, known for their emphasis on strong defense and effective counter-attacks, will be fascinating to watch.

It remains to be seen how these two tacticians will outmaneuver each other, making this fixture one to anticipate.