Kokrajhar, August 2, 2025: Punjab FC kick off their 134th IndianOil Durand Cup campaign on Sunday when they face Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC in their Group D opener, here at the SAI Stadium. The Shers, participating with an all-Indian squad this season, will look to begin on a winning note and build early momentum in the prestigious tournament. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM IST.
Punjab FC, who reached the quarter-finals in last year’s Durand Cup, have named a young and dynamic 25-member squad for the tournament, featuring 11 players promoted from their academy setup. Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis has retained much of last season’s domestic core and will be banking on their hunger and familiarity with the system to guide the team deep into the competition.
The squad includes the likes of Princeton Rebello, Vinit Rai, Leon Augustine, and Ricky Shabong in midfield, while the attack features Ninthoinganba Meetei and Ranjeet Pandre, who returns after a productive loan spell at Gokulam Kerala. New defensive recruits Bijoy Varghese and Muhammed Uvais will add depth at the back.
Speaking ahead of the match, Punjab FC Head Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis said, “The Durand Cup is special, historically and emotionally. It’s not just the first competition of the season for us; it’s a platform to show Indian football our identity and style of play. It’s a big chance that we must approach with respect, good preparation and for the young players a chance to find their space. Every match in Durand Cup matters.”
Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC, on the other hand, have already played two games in the group, suffering defeats against Indo Tibetan Border Police FT and Bodoland FC. In their most recent fixture, they took the lead through Nigerian striker Joseph Mayowa Olaleye but eventually went down 1-2 to Bodoland FC. Despite the losses, the Durand debutants have shown moments of attacking promise and will aim to spring a surprise.
Among the players to watch for Punjab FC is Muhammad Suhail, the 18-year-old forward who had a breakthrough ISL season and will be aiming to continue his development in the Durand Cup. Midfielder Ricky Shabong and defender Nikhil Prabhu, both known for their work rate and defensive contributions, are also expected to play key roles.
Muheet Shabir and Ayush Deshwal provide reliable goalkeeping options, but the experienced Ravi Kumar might be preferred over the two in the opening match. Punjab FC have built a strong defensive record over the past season, and the young backline will be keen to maintain those standards.
Having narrowly missed out on topping their group last year due to goal difference and exiting in a dramatic quarterfinal, Punjab FC will be keen to take that extra step this season. A winning start against Karbi Anglong could prove vital in a competitive Group D that also includes hosts Bodoland FC and ITBP FT.
With a strong mix of promise and preparation, the Shers are all set to roar into the new season.
