Kolkata, August 23 (HS): Defending champions NorthEast United FC stormed to their second successive Durand Cup crown, dismantling debutants Diamond Harbour FC 6-1 in a one-sided grand finale at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday.
On a night of relentless attacking football, the Highlanders showcased their squad depth with six different names on the scoresheet – Asheer Akhtar (30’), Parthib Gogoi (45+1’), Thoi Singh (50’), Jairo (81’), Andy (85’) and Alaaeddine Ajaraie (90+3’, pen). Diamond Harbour managed a consolation strike through a deflected header from Jobby Justin in the 68th minute.
NorthEast stamped their authority early, dominating possession and chances. Parthib’s clinical finish on the stroke of half-time doubled the lead before Thoi Singh ended any hopes of a Diamond Harbour fightback just five minutes into the second half.
The Highlanders’ second-half blitz was orchestrated by Moroccan forward Ajaraie, who set up two goals before calmly slotting home a stoppage-time penalty to seal the rout. Diamond Harbour briefly threatened after reducing the deficit to 3-1, but NEUFC’s superior quality proved overwhelming.
The emphatic triumph marked NorthEast United’s back-to-back Durand Cup titles, making them the first club to defend the prestigious trophy in 25 years. The victory also underlined their resurgence as a force in Indian football, with coach Juan Pedro Benali’s men lifting silverware in front of a raucous Kolkata crowd.
As jubilant Highlanders hoisted the iconic trophy, the message was clear: NorthEast United are no longer just contenders – they are serial winners of Indian football’s oldest tournament.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
