NorthEast United FC showcased a dominant performance in the Durand Cup final, overpowering Diamond Harbour FC with a score of 6-1 at Salt Lake Stadium, thereby successfully defending their title. The Highlanders established a 2-0 advantage by halftime and subsequently dominated the second half, achieving the most significant margin of victory in a Durand Cup final post-Independence. Goals were contributed by Asheer Akhtar, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, substitute Jairo Samperio, Andres Rodriguez, and Alaaeddine Ajaraie (penalty). Diamond Harbour’s sole goal was scored by Luka Majcen. Diamond Harbour FC, having eliminated ISL giants Jamshedpur FC and East Bengal to reach the final, couldn’t maintain their momentum in the title decider. NorthEast United’s victory resulted from a strong defense, a dominant midfield, and a ruthless finishing capability. NorthEast United joins East Bengal as the only teams to have won the Durand Cup consecutively since India gained independence.
