Ambedkar Stadium packed with armymen for Durand final

New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) The 20,000-capacity Ambedkar Stadium here finally filled up on Thursday as Army families and school children flocked to the ground to witness the Durand Cup final between Mohammedan Sporting and ONGC.

The 126th edition of the world’s third oldest tournament had so far seen the stands with hardly 100-200 spectators for the group and knockout stages. However, the cemented rows were filled to capacity on Thursday as numerous Army trucks carrying loads of football fans descended on the scene.

The Army band, consisting a mix of various regiments, put on a scintillating display of music and marching drill, much to the joy of fans. There was also a significant Army presence with senior personnel coming to witness the final.

ONGC are looking to make history by winning their first major trophy. On the other hand, Sporting have already won the tournament once in 1940 and finished runners-up on three occasions.