MFA’s Nadkarni Cup 2024 kicks off on November 4 with 21 teams competing

by FC November 3, 2024

The Nadkarni Cup, one of Mumbai’s most cherished football tournaments, is back for its 2024 edition, starting November 4 at the Neville D’Souza Ground in Bandra.

Organized annually by the Mumbai Football Association (MFA), this competition brings together local teams, including contenders from both the Mumbai Premier League (MPL) and the Mumbai Corporate League, battling for the prestigious title and a storied legacy dating back to the 1920s.

Originally known as the Junior Rovers Cup, the tournament was first contested among school and college teams in Mumbai, with the trophy sponsored by G.N. Nadkarni. In 1925, the Western India Football Association rebranded the event as the Nadkarni Cup, dedicating it to Indian football clubs. Over the years, it has grown to feature Mumbai’s top professional and corporate teams, carving a legacy of thrilling matches and intense local rivalries.

The Nadkarni Cup resumed in 2023 after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with Invincible Ambernath United – Atlanta FC emerging victorious in a commanding 3-1 final over Bank of Baroda. Previously, Air India FC claimed three consecutive titles from 2017 to 2019 before the pandemic interrupted the tradition.

The 2024 Edition: Knockout Format with 21 Teams

This year’s Nadkarni Cup will follow a direct knockout format, featuring 21 teams—14 from the MPL and seven from the Mumbai Corporate League. Round 1 comprises 10 matchups, while one team receives a bye into Round 2. The Winners of Round 1 teams will be drawn into their second-round fixtures on November 8, ensuring one additional bye for an even bracket.

The MPL lineup includes MYJ-GMSC, reigning undefeated champions of last season’s MPL, and MH Oranje FC, last season’s runners-up who recently fell in the Harwood Champions League semifinals. Meanwhile, Mumbay FC, a newly-formed team that’s made a sensational MPL debut with three consecutive wins, and India On Track & Mumbai City FC who have been promoted into MPL this season. 

In the Corporate League, teams like Union Bank of India, reigning champions of last season’s MCL, Mumbai Customs, and newly promoted Mumbai Port Trust.

Fixtures and Key Matchups

Here’s the Round 1 fixture list for the Nadkarni Cup:

Stay tuned for thrilling local football action as these teams clash for the Nadkarni Cup title.

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