Durand Cup 2026: 11 Young Footballers to Win Emerging Player Award across all Six Groups

The ongoing Durand Cup has provided a platform for several young Indian footballers to announce themselves, and the Durand Football Tournament Society has recognised 11 promising performers with the Emerging Player Award.

Players from all six groups have been selected for the honour, with each recipient set to receive a cash prize of ₹1 lakh for their performances during the tournament.

Among the standout performers was 19-year-old Veer Joshi of Samaleswari Sporting, who produced a memorable moment against Mohammedan Sporting. The debutant found the net from a free-kick in the 81st minute, helping Samaleswari Sporting secure an impressive 3-2 win.

Saikhom Borish Singh of Indian Army FT was another player who caught the eye. His direct approach, pace and willingness to take on defenders made him a constant threat in the attacking third.

The Indian Air Force FT pairing of Samuel K. Vanlalpeka and Naorem Somananda Singh also earned recognition. Vanlalpeka scored against SC Delhi, while Somananda Singh found the target against Defenders FC of Sri Lanka.

South United FC produced two award winners in Md. Altab Hussain and Rinshid V. The 19-year-old Altab, who hails from Manipur, impressed with his movement and aggressive attacking style. Midfielder Rinshid, meanwhile, showed composure against more experienced opposition after earning his place at the club through regional trials.

Midul Doley of FC Raengdai was the only Emerging Player selected from Group D. The young attacker provided an important outlet for the debutants and showed plenty of promise during their campaign.

Group E produced two more awardees in Kyrmenskhem Mukhim of Langsning FC and Dawancha Carlos Challam of Nongkseh SS & CC. Mukhim scored twice in the group stage, consistently looking to drive forward and create opportunities. Challam was equally influential from midfield, contributing two goals and an assist while working effectively in both attacking and defensive phases.

From Group F, Bodoland FC’s Rituraj Mohan was rewarded for his strong work rate and disciplined defensive displays, while also contributing going forward when required.

Lalpekhlua Lalpekhlua of Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC completed the list of 11 recipients. Operating from the flank, he used his pace and movement to stretch opposing defences and create space for his teammates.

The Emerging Player initiative highlights the Durand Cup’s role in giving young footballers an opportunity to compete against established clubs and experienced professionals. With players from different regions of the country earning recognition, the awards underline the depth of emerging football talent being showcased at India’s historic tournament.

Durand Cup 2026 Emerging Player Award Winners

Group A: Md. Altab Hussain (South United FC), Rinshid V (South United FC)
Group B: Saikhom Borish Singh (Indian Army FT), Veer Arjun Joshi (Samaleswari Sporting)
Group C: Samuel K. Vanlalpeka (Indian Air Force FT), Naorem Somananda Singh (Indian Air Force FT)
Group D: Midul Doley (FC Raengdai)
Group E: Kyrmenskhem Mukhim (Langsning FC), Dawancha Carlos Challam (Nongkseh SS & CC)
Group F: Rituraj Mohan (Bodoland FC), Lalpekhlua Lalpekhlua (Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC)