In a breathtaking finale that will be remembered for years to come, NorthEast United FC achieved a historic triumph by securing their first-ever major trophy.
The Highlanders pulled off a stunning comeback after trailing 2-0 at halftime to defeat the defending champions, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, in a penalty shootout and claim the 133rd IndianOil Durand Cup.
The thrilling encounter unfolded at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, with NorthEast United demonstrating resilience and determination.
Despite being two goals down, the Highlanders fought back fiercely, forcing the match into penalties after leveling the score with two second-half goals. Goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh emerged as the hero of the night, saving two crucial spot kicks to seal the victory.
Mohun Bagan had initially taken control of the match with first-half goals from Jason Cummings and Sahal Abdul Samad. However, NorthEast United turned the tide after the break.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Guillermo Fernandez scored in quick succession, bringing the scoreline to 2-2 and sending the match into extra time.
Head Coach Juan Pedro Benali’s tactical changes proved pivotal. Opting to start with Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Jithin M.S, and Thoi Singh in attack while resting Spanish forwards Guillermo Fernandez and Nestor Albiach, Benali’s strategy paid off.
The Highlanders’ midfield, led by Mohammed Ali Bemammer and Hamza Regragui, along with Mayakkannan Muthu in defense, provided the necessary support to turn the game around.
On the opposite side, Mohun Bagan’s Coach Jose Molina had deployed a formidable attacking lineup with Jason Cummings, Greg Stewart, and Sahal Abdul Samad, supported by Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh on the wings.
Despite their strong start and solid first-half performance, Mohun Bagan struggled to maintain their lead and found themselves overwhelmed by NorthEast United’s resurgence.
The match began with a sense of unease from both teams, but Mohun Bagan quickly asserted dominance.
Sahal Abdul Samad’s penalty, awarded after he was fouled by Asheer Akhtar, was confidently converted by Jason Cummings. The Mariners extended their lead just before halftime with Sahal’s clinical finish, leaving NorthEast United with an uphill battle.
The Highlanders, however, returned for the second half with renewed vigor. Substitute Guillermo Fernandez and Nestor Albiach injected fresh energy into the team, with Jithin M.S continuing his impressive performance from the first half.
Jithin’s run down the left flank created opportunities, and his efforts were rewarded when Alaaeddine Ajaraie and Guillermo Fernandez scored within minutes to equalize.
The final stages of the match saw NorthEast United dominate, with several chances to clinch the win in regular time.
However, the game proceeded to penalties. In the shootout, Gurmeet Singh’s heroics stood out as he saved attempts from Liston Colaco and Subhasish Bose.
NorthEast United’s penalty takers—Guillermo Fernandez, Michel Zabaco, Parthib Gogoi, and Alaaeddine Ajaraie—were flawless, while only three of Mohun Bagan’s four spot kicks found the net.
In recognition of their outstanding performances, several players received accolades.
Gurmeet Singh was awarded the Golden Glove for his exceptional goalkeeping throughout the tournament. Noah Sadaoui claimed the Golden Boot with six goals, and Jithin M.S was honored as the Man of the Tournament. Each received a cash prize of INR 5,00,000 along with their respective trophies.
NorthEast United’s triumph marks a historic achievement for the club, who received a winner’s purse of INR 60,00,000, while Mohun Bagan took home the runner-up prize of INR 30,00,000.