Kolkata, Aug 23, 2025: NorthEast United FC scripted history at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday, thrashing debutants Diamond Harbour FC 6-1 to retain the Durand Cup crown.
Goals from Asheer Akhtar, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, Jairo, Gaitan, and Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie sealed the emphatic win, while Luka Majcen netted a consolation for Diamond Harbour.
The victory makes NorthEast United the first team since East Bengal in 1991 to successfully defend the title, cementing their place among Indian football’s elite.
Ajaraie, the tournament’s standout performer, walked away with a clean sweep of awards - the Golden Ball, Golden Boot, and Golden Glove (on behalf of Gurmeet Singh). Gurmeet, their reliable shot-stopper, bagged the Golden Glove for his commanding performances.
The Highlanders’ road to glory was marked by dominant displays, including a 4-0 win over Bodoland FC in the quarter-final and a gritty victory against Shillong Lajong in the semi-final. With Ajaraie scoring seven goals in the campaign, their attack looked unstoppable.
Diamond Harbour, despite the defeat, won hearts with their fairytale run. Formed in 2020, the West Bengal side stunned East Bengal in the semi-finals and reached the final on their maiden Durand Cup appearance.
Prize Distribution:
• Champions (NEUFC): ₹1.21 crore
• Runners-up (DHFC): ₹60 lakh
• Losing semi-finalists: ₹25 lakh each
• Losing quarter-finalists: ₹15 lakh each
Individual award winners also received ₹3 lakh and a Mahindra XUV 3OO SUV.
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With this triumph, NorthEast United FC lifted their second Durand Cup title, joining a distinguished group of clubs with back-to-back wins in Asia’s oldest football tournament.
