Kolkata, July 27: A new chapter in Bengal football unfolds tomorrow as Diamond Harbour FC, one of the most talked-about emerging clubs in recent times, is all set to make their Durand Cup debut. The debutants will play their opener against Mohammedan Sporting Club, to be held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.

This isn’t just another game. It’s a moment of pride, history, and ambition for a club that has grown rapidly since its inception just three years ago. From the dusty fields of regional football to the Asia’s oldest and most prestigious tournaments, Diamond Harbour FC’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable.

Guided by experienced Spanish coach Kibu Vicuna, who brings his tactical intelligence and calming presence, Diamond Harbour FC has built a balanced squad blending foreign firepower with Indian flair. The side recently made headlines by signing Slovenian striker Luka Majcen, who is expected to the be fielded tomorrow.

They recently signed Halicharan Narzary, who was in the match day minus one practice, players like Joby Justin, Girik Khosla, Narohari Shreshta, and new Spanish left-back Mikel Kortazar, Brazilian winter Clayton Da Dilva, experienced Angousana, Melroy Assisi, bring valuable experience and depth to the squad. The dressing room is optimistic, and the atmosphere within the camp reflects determination and unity, as we saw a compact training before the match day.

Currently, Kolkata giants Mohammedan SC are struggling with issues such as a transfer ban, player signings, and internal problems. While Diamond Harbour FC will enter the match as favourites on paper, the highly contested nature of Kolkata clubs in the Durand Cup is sure to grab everyone’s attention. However against a team like Mohammedan SC, who come with rich heritage and high expectations, Diamond Harbour FC will look to surprise, disrupt, and announce themselves.

Diamond Harbour FC’s Coach Kibu Vicuna’s view:

Kibu Vicuna – We respect Mohammedan SC, a team with ISL-level quality. But we are here to compete!

‘We are excited to play tomorrow. The first game we have been preparing for since three, four weeks ago. But no, still we don’t have the whole team. But yes, I think we are prepared for tomorrow. We have to respect very much Mohammedan. They are a team of ISL and even the Calcutta League team, with very good potential. Three years ago, at this time, we were playing Batanagar first division league.
And three years later, we are going to play in Saltlake Stadium in the Durand Cup.
So I think we have to be proud, we have to be very happy. But at the same time, we have the responsibility to compete’ said Kibu.