Shillong, August 31: The NorthEast United FC has made history after winning the 133rd Durand Cup 2024 on Saturday after beating Mohun Bagan SG in a thrilling final at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
Mohun Bagan seized an early advantage as the referee blew for a penalty against the run of play in the 10th minute. Asheer Akhtar had brought down Sahal Abdul Samad inside the box as Jason Cummings stepped up and converted the spot kick to hand Mohun Bagan the lead in the 11th minute.
In the 18th minute, Mohun Bagan had the chance to double their lead. Greg Stewart won possession on the left flank as he easily beat his marker and ran into the penalty box. he attempted to dink goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh but ended up hitting it over the bar.
NEUFC Mohammed Bemammer made way for the attack-minded Nestor Albaich in the 31st minute. The Highlanders tried their best to force their way back into the game but met strong opposition in the form of Alberto Rodriguez. He had to be substituted in the 38th minute with Asish Rai coming in.
But with the first half drawing to a close, it was the Mariners who managed to score again. Anirudh Thapa played Liston Colaco behind the defence from the left flank as he ran beyond the defender and sent in a pinpoint cross for Sahal, who thumbed the ball into the net in the extra time of the first half.
However, NorthEast United staged a remarkable comeback in the second half, with Ajaraie and Guillermo finding the net in the 55th and 58th minutes, respectively to level the score at 2-2.
After the end of the normal time, the match was decided in a tense penalty shootout, where NorthEast United’s goalkeeper, Gurmeet Singh, made two crucial saves, securing a 4-3 victory and the club’s historic triumph.
This is the first ever silverware for the North East United Football Club since their inception a decade back.
NorthEast United FC goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh won the Golden Glove Award, while midfielder Jithin M.S. was named the Best Player of the Tournament and received the Golden Ball Award.
The tournament’s top scorer, Noah Wail Sadoiu from Kerela Blasters FC was awarded the Golden Boot.
