Who are The Durand Cup Winners From 1950 to 2022?

Steeped in History and Tradition

The Durand Cup, deeply rooted in history and tradition, proudly stands as a testament to India’s unwavering love for football. Established in 1888, it holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest football tournament. This prestigious competition owes its name to Mortimer Durand, the Viceroy of India during its inception. Over the years, the Durand Cup has evolved, becoming a stage for showcasing remarkable talent and creating unforgettable moments in Indian football. Let’s embark on a journey through its rich history, exploring the remarkable tale from its inception to the present day.

A Glimpse of History

In the late 19th century, when football was finding its roots in India, the Durand Cup emerged as a symbol of the nation’s growing enthusiasm for the sport. The inaugural edition in 1888 marked the birth of a legacy that has endured for over a century. It was a tournament that united aspiring footballers and enthusiastic spectators, laying the foundation for a rich footballing tradition.

The Evolution of Excellence

Over the decades, the Durand Cup evolved in tandem with the growth of Indian football. It provided a platform for clubs and teams to showcase their prowess, fostering competition and camaraderie. The tournament’s history is punctuated with legendary clubs and remarkable players who etched their names in football folklore.

Durand Cup Winners (1950-2023)

The Durand Cup, India’s premier football tournament, has a storied history dating back to 1888. Let’s dive into its winners and the moments that defined it over the years.

1950-1959: Early Dominance

• 1950: Hyderabad City Police clinched the inaugural title with a thrilling 1–0 victory in extra time against Mohun Bagan.
• 1951: East Bengal displayed their prowess by defeating Rajasthan Armed Constabulary 2–1.
• 1952: East Bengal continued their reign, overcoming Hyderabad City Police.
• 1953: Mohun Bagan secured their first Durand Cup, besting National Defence Academy.
• 1954: Hyderabad City Police returned to the winner’s circle with a 1–0 win against Hindustan Aircraft Limited.
• 1955: Madras Regimental Centre emerged victorious in a nail-biting match against Indian Air Force, winning 3–2.

1960-1969: Mohun Bagan Dominance

• 1960: Mohun Bagan and East Bengal shared the trophy as joint winners.
• 1961: Andhra Pradesh Police triumphed over Mohun Bagan.
• 1962: The tournament was canceled due to the Sino-Indian War.
• 1963: Mohun Bagan claimed another title with a 2–0 victory over Andhra Pradesh Police.
• 1964: Mohun Bagan overcame East Bengal.
• 1965: Mohun Bagan continued their dominance by defeating Punjab Police.
• 1966: Gorkha Brigade edged out Sikh Regimental Centre.

1970-1979: Border Security Force and East Bengal

• 1970: East Bengal triumphed over Mohun Bagan.
• 1971: Border Security Force secured victory with a 1–0 win against Leaders Club.
• 1972: East Bengal triumphed with a 1–0 victory over Mohun Bagan.
• 1973: Border Security Force won again, defeating Rajasthan Armed Constabulary.
• 1974: Mohun Bagan lifted the trophy once more.

1980-1999: A Mix of Champions

• 1980: Mohun Bagan claimed another title, besting Mohammedan.
• 1981: Border Security Force secured victory against JCT.
• 1982: Mohun Bagan and East Bengal were joint winners again.
• 1983: JCT won 2–1 against Mohun Bagan.
• 1984: Mohun Bagan clinched another title, defeating East Bengal.
• 1985: Mohun Bagan won over JCT.
• 1986: Mohun Bagan triumphed against East Bengal.
• 1987: JCT secured victory against Mohun Bagan.
• 1988: Border Security Force defeated East Bengal.
• 1989: East Bengal triumphed over Mohun Bagan.
• 1990: East Bengal bested Mahindra & Mahindra.

2000-2022: Recent Triumphs

• 2000: Mohun Bagan emerged victorious against Mahindra United.
• 2001: Mahindra United secured victory over Churchill Brothers.
• 2002: East Bengal triumphed over Army XI.
• 2003: Salgaocar won against East Bengal.
• 2004: East Bengal secured victory over Mohun Bagan.
• 2005: Army XI triumphed over Sporting Goa.
• 2006: Dempo claimed victory over JCT.
• 2007: Churchill Brothers emerged victorious over Mahindra United.
• 2008: Mahindra United won against Churchill Brothers.
• 2009: Churchill Brothers triumphed over Mohun Bagan.
• 2010: United won against JCT.
• 2011: Churchill Brothers secured victory over Prayag United.
• 2012: Air India won against Dodsal.
• 2013: Mohammedan emerged victorious over ONGC.
• 2014: Salgaocar secured victory over Pune.
• 2016: Army Green triumphed over NEROCA.
• 2019: Gokulam Kerala won against Mohun Bagan.
• 2020: The tournament was not held due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 2021: Goa emerged victorious against Mohammedan.
• 2022: Bengaluru secured victory over Mumbai City.

The Present and Future

Today, the Durand Cup remains a vital fixture on India’s football calendar. It serves as a platform for both budding talent and established clubs to assert their dominance, contributing to the growth and popularity of football in India.

Conclusion

The Durand Cup, with its rich history, legendary winners, and countless memorable moments, stands as a symbol of excellence and passion for the beautiful game. As we look ahead, the Durand Cup continues to shape the destiny of Indian football, inspiring generations to come. The journey from 1888 to 2023 is a testament to the enduring spirit of football in India.