The Durand Cup 2025 begins on July 23 at Salt Lake Stadium with a marquee clash between East Bengal FC and South United FC. The tournament, featuring 24 teams, spans five cities and marks the return of one of Asia's oldest football competitions.

“Everybody in the Indian football ecosystem is worried, hurt, scared about the uncertainty we are faced with. But we’ll ride this storm together,” said Sunil Chhetri, as he urged players, staff, and fans to stay united and hopeful amid the ISL standstill.

India U23 drew 0–0 with Kyrgyz Republic in a hard-fought friendly match in Tajikistan. Despite late chances from Suhail and Macarton, the Blue Colts had to settle for a goalless draw.

India U23 suffered a 2-3 loss to Tajikistan in a friendly after leading twice. Suhail Bhat and Parthib Gogoi scored, but two injury-time goals cost them the match.

India suffered a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong, in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers after conceding a 94th-minute penalty. Despite a solid defensive display and good chances for Ashique and Chhetri, the Blue Tigers couldn’t find the net. Goalkeeper Kaith’s late error led to the match-winning penalty by Pereira. With just one point from two games, India’s hopes of qualification hang by a thread. A crucial clash against Singapore now awaits in October.

Jamie Maclaren and Jason Cummings scored cancelling our an own goal from Alberto to complete a historic 2-1 victory over Bengaluru to become the first team in ISL history to win the cup at their home.