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Kolkata: NorthEast United FC created history by winning their second straight Durand Cup title with a stunning 6-1 victory over Diamond Harbour FC at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. The win made the Highlanders the first team since East Bengal’s treble in 1989–91 to successfully defend the trophy.
The champions dominated from the start, with Asheer Akhtar scoring in the 30th minute and Parthib Gogoi doubling the lead just before half-time. After the break, Thoi Singh struck in the 50th minute before Spaniards Jairo Samperio and Andy Rodriguez added quick goals in the 81st and 85th minutes. Tournament top-scorer Alaaeddine Ajaraie sealed the historic night with a stoppage-time penalty, finishing with eight goals and three assists in the competition.
Diamond Harbour pulled one back in the 68th minute through Luka Majcen, but it was little more than a consolation as NorthEast United’s late surge crushed their hopes.
The Highlanders’ dominance was further highlighted in the awards ceremony. Goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh won the Golden Glove for the second year in a row, while Ajaraie took home both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot. The night ended in wild celebrations as Juan Pedro Benali’s side cemented their place in Durand Cup history.
