Guwahati, August 12, 2026: The race for the quarter-finals of the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup is nearing its conclusion, with five teams already securing their places in the knockout stage.
The group stage will conclude on August 13, with the quarter-finals scheduled to begin on August 16. With 24 teams competing across six groups, only three quarter-final spots remain up for grabs.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Indian Army FT, SC Delhi, FC Raengdai and NorthEast United FC have all secured their places as group winners.
Mohun Bagan Super Giant topped Group A, while Indian Army FT finished first in Group B. SC Delhi and FC Raengdai secured the top spots in Groups C and D respectively. NorthEast United FC sealed Group F after winning all three of their matches.
The final automatic qualification spot remains open in Group E. Shillong Lajong FC currently lead the group, with Langsning FC still in contention.
The other two quarter-final places will go to the best two second-placed teams across the six groups. Several teams remain in contention for these spots.
East Bengal FC and Samaleswari Sporting are currently in the race from Groups A and B. Jamshedpur FC and Indian Air Force FT still have a mathematical chance of finishing second in Group C. Bodoland FC also remain in contention for second place in Group F.
The final standings will determine which two runners-up have the strongest records and secure the remaining quarter-final berths.
Several teams have already been eliminated from the competition. South United FC and CISF Protectors FT are out from Group A. Mohammedan Sporting Club and Baghpat FC have been eliminated from Group B.
Defenders FC are out from Group C, while TRAU FC, Indian Navy FT and Neroca FC have been eliminated from Group D.
In Group E, Nongkseh SS & CC and Mumbay FC have been knocked out. FC1 and Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC have also been eliminated from Group F.
With the final group matches set to decide the remaining spots, the Durand Cup is heading into an exciting finish before the knockout stage begins.
