NorthEast United FC made history by winning the 133rd edition of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, with a thrilling 4-3 victory over defending champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant in a penalty shootout at Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday.
Mohun Bagan initially dominated the match, securing a two-goal lead in the first half with strikes from Jason Cummings, who converted a penalty, and Sahal Abdul Samad. However, NorthEast United staged an impressive comeback in the second half, scoring two goals within three minutes to level the score at 2-2 by the end of regulation time.
With no extra time, the match proceeded directly to penalty shootouts. NorthEast United’s goalkeeper, Gurmeet Singh, became the hero by making two crucial saves, which helped secure the club's first-ever Durand Cup title.
The victory sparked immense joy among NorthEast United supporters, including team owner and actor John Abraham, who traveled to witness the Highlanders win their first trophy a decade after the club's inception. In contrast, the 50,000 home supporters of Mohun Bagan were left heartbroken, as their team missed the opportunity to win the Durand Cup for a record-extending 18th time.
NorthEast United's resurgence in the second half was marked by a stunning right-footed goal from Moroccan forward Alaaeddine Ajaraie in the 55th minute. Ajaraie also assisted substitute Guillermo Fernandez, who volleyed in the equalizer just three minutes later. Jithin M.S., who played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, was instrumental in NorthEast’s first goal and was later awarded the Golden Ball for his outstanding contributions.
Despite several chances to seal the victory during regular time, Mohun Bagan’s goalkeeper Vishal Kaith made two crucial saves to keep the game tied. However, in the penalty shootout, NorthEast United turned the tables, with Gurmeet Singh saving shots from Liston Colaco and Subhasish Bose, ending Mohun Bagan’s run of penalty shootout victories in the tournament.
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