NorthEast United FC will look to defend its title as it takes on Diamond Harbour FC in the 134th Durand Cup final at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday.
The Highlanders defeated Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the 2024 final to lift their maiden Durand Cup title. Sportstar takes you through a recap of the historic night for NorthEast United.
Mohun Bagan established a two-goal lead in the opening half with strikes from Jason Cummings and Sahal Abdul Samad.
NorthEast, however, stuck to its game plan and fought back after the break, scoring two goals in three minutes to make it 2-2 at the end of the regulation time.
In the 55th minute. Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie found Mohun Bagan’s net with a rasping right-footer that caught the Mariners goalkeeper Vishal Kaith napping.
Keeping up the aggression, the Highlanders found the equaliser three minutes later when substitute Guillermo Fernandez volleyed home a pinpoint accurate cross from Ajaraie.
Gurmeet Singh made two crucial saves as NorthEast United won its first trophy since its inception 10 years ago.
| Photo Credit:
Debasish Bhaduri/The Hindu
Gurmeet Singh made two crucial saves as NorthEast United won its first trophy since its inception 10 years ago.
| Photo Credit:
Debasish Bhaduri/The Hindu
NorthEast could easily have wrapped up the final in regulation time, but Kaith made two valiant saves to keep the score tied till the end.
With the match going straight to a penalty-shootout, Gurmeet Singh emerged as a hero for the Highlanders, making two crucial saves in the shootout and helping his team get a 4-3 win.
Published on Aug 23, 2025
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com