Mohun Bagan AC and East Bengal FC had not been part of the Durand Cup in previous years, but according to DFTS Secretary General Major S.S. Maan, they were expected to participate.
[citation needed] Churchill Brothers defeated Mohun Bagan 3–1 in the final to win the trophy for their second time.
[2] 16 teams played a one-off match to determine the 8 clubs to reach the second qualifying round.
8 teams play a one-off match to determine 4 clubs to advance to the third qualifying stage.
4 clubs remain, 2 will advance to the group stage Sporting Clube de Goa Churchill Brothers Assam Rifles Mohun Bagan