NorthEast United FC secured a decisive victory over Diamond Harbour FC in the Durand Cup final, prevailing with a score of 6-1 at Salt Lake Stadium. This dominant performance allowed them to successfully defend their title. The Highlanders established a 2-0 lead in the first half and then extended their advantage in the second, achieving the most significant margin of victory in a Durand Cup final since India’s independence. Goals from Asheer Akhtar, Parthib Gogoi, Thoi Singh, Jairo Samperio, Andres Rodriguez, and Alaaeddine Ajaraie (penalty) contributed to the historic win, while Diamond Harbour’s only goal came from Luka Majcen. Diamond Harbour FC, despite an impressive run that included victories over ISL giants Jamshedpur FC and East Bengal, couldn’t maintain their momentum in the final. NorthEast United’s strong defense, midfield control, and clinical finishing were key to their triumph. NorthEast United is only the second team, following East Bengal (1989–1991), to have retained the Durand Cup title in post-Independence times.
