“The city has a lot of talent… they deserve a platform”: Tiger Shroff as Mumbay FC set for Durand Cup debut

Mumbay FC will make its maiden appearance in the 135th Durand Cup, marking a rapid rise for the Mumbai-based club less than two years after its formation in 2024.“The city has a lot of talent, they deserve a platform like this to shine. I have seen a few talented players who can play at the top,” actor Tiger Shroff said, commenting on the club’s progress and the broader football ecosystem in Mumbai.

The Durand Cup, first held in 1888, is one of the oldest football tournaments in the world and remains a key fixture in India’s domestic calendar, featuring a mix of established clubs, Services teams and emerging sides.Mumbay FC qualified for the tournament following its Maharashtra State League title-winning campaign, a result that also secured promotion to I-League 3. The club’s entry into the Durand Cup places it among higher-level competition early in its development cycle.Drawn in Group E, Mumbay FC will play its matches in Shillong, where it faces Shillong Lajong FC, Langsning FC and Nongkseh SS&CC. The group is expected to pose a competitive test, particularly given the strength of football in the region.Founded with a focus on developing local talent, the club has sought to create opportunities for players within Mumbai’s football system. Technical direction has been led by former professional footballer Zoheb Khan, with an emphasis on building a young squad.

Tiger Shroff, who has been associated with the club, added: “I have seen a few talented players who can play at the top. Thankful to Zoheb for keeping the hope of Mumbai football alive.” His participation in the tournament remains subject to team selection and registration.The Durand Cup has historically served as a platform for emerging teams to test themselves against more established opposition. For Mumbay FC, the upcoming edition represents an early opportunity to assess its progress at a higher competitive level.The 135th Durand Cup will be held across multiple venues, with Kolkata serving as the principal host city.