Durand Cup

Durand Cup 2024 Final: NorthEast United Clinch Their First Title

NorthEast United FC made history by winning their first Durand Cup title, defeating defending champions Mohun Bagan SG in a dramatic penalty shootout. The Highlanders fought back from a 2-0 deficit with goals from Ajaraie and Guillermo to force the match into penalties. NorthEast United’s goalkeeper Gurmeet emerged as the hero, saving crucial shots from Liston Colaco and Subhasish Bose, securing a 4-3 win. This landmark victory marks NorthEast United’s first major silverware, capping off a decade-long journey to the top of Indian football.

by
whistleindia
September 9, 2024

In an intense showdown at the Salt Lake Stadium, NorthEast United FC made history by claiming their first-ever Durand Cup title, defeating Mohun Bagan SG in a dramatic penalty shootout. The match, held on August 31, 2024, saw both teams putting forth a valiant effort, but it was the Highlanders who emerged victorious, ending the defending champions’ hopes of retaining the trophy.

Match Summary:

Mohun Bagan SG took an early lead with a penalty goal from Jason Cummings in the 11th minute after Sahal Abdul Samad was brought down inside the box. Sahal later doubled the lead just before the half-time whistle, setting the score at 2-0 in favor of the Mariners. However, NorthEast United made a spirited comeback in the second half, with Ajaraie and Guillermo finding the back of the net in quick succession to level the score at 2-2.

The match continued to be a battle of nerves as both teams pushed for a winner, but neither could break the deadlock, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.

Penalty Shootout:

The penalty shootout was a nail-biting affair, with both teams taking calculated shots. Mohun Bagan SG and NorthEast United were level at 3-3 when Mariners’ Liston Colaco’s and captain Subhasish Bose’s shots were crucially saved by NorthEast United’s goalkeeper Gurmeet. Ajaraie stepped up for NorthEast United and scored, putting immense pressure on Mohun Bagan. Subhasish Bose’s final miss confirmed NorthEast United’s 4-3 victory on penalties, sparking celebrations as they lifted their maiden silverware since the club’s inception a decade ago.

Key Performances:

Golden Boot: Noah Sadaoui (Kerala Blasters) – 6 goals
Golden Ball: Jithin MS (NorthEast United) – Outstanding performances, including two Player of the Match awards
Golden Glove: Gurmeet (NorthEast United) – 3 clean sheets, including crucial saves in the penalty shootout

Historic Win:

This victory is monumental for NorthEast United FC, marking their first major title and signaling a new era for the club. They demonstrated resilience and tenacity, overcoming a two-goal deficit and prevailing in the high-pressure environment of penalties. The win not only ends their long wait for a trophy but also cements their status as a formidable force in Indian football.

NorthEast United’s triumph is a testament to their growth and persistence, and this historic Durand Cup win will be remembered as a defining moment in the club’s journey. The Highlanders have set a high bar for themselves and will look to build on this success in future competitions.