NorthEast United Thrash Diamond Harbour 6-1, Hold On to Durand Cup Crown

With a commanding 6-1 win over Diamond Harbour FC at VYBK, NorthEast United FC lifted the Durand Cup for the second year in a row under Juan Pedro Benali.

In the 134th Durand Cup final at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday, NorthEast United FC dominated newcomers Diamond Harbour FC 6-1 to win their second consecutive title.

Set to host the final showdown of Asia’s oldest football competition, the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan awaits after a month packed with exciting action, shocking results, and standout performances that captivated Indian football fans, as two finalists emerge.

With their eyes firmly set on back-to-back Durand Cup titles, they displayed strong intent and overcame Shillong Lajong in the semi-finals to reach the final once again.

In contrast, the surprise package of the tournament came from Kolkata—but not from the city’s famous trio. Kibu Vicuna’s Diamond Harbour FC shocked the footballing world by eliminating Jamshedpur FC and East Bengal FC in the knockouts.

The Highlanders concluded the second half with flair.

Thoi struck in the 50th minute to give the Highlanders their third goal, making it appear as though the match was sealed for the debutants. Despite the uphill battle, Vicuna’s side remained determined, still dreaming of an improbable comeback. The home fans held onto hope, and for a moment, it felt like divine intervention as the ball, following Majcen’s final touch from a corner, somehow ended up in the back of the net.

With twenty minutes of regular time remaining, a two-goal comeback was still within reach. Vicuna played all his cards, making full use of his substitutions in a final push—but to no effect. As Diamond Harbour committed bodies forward in search of a miracle, NorthEast United took advantage, punishing them with swift counterattacks.

Jairo Samperio’s composed finish dashed any remaining hopes for a comeback, sparking celebrations across Guwahati, Shillong, Imphal, and nearly every part of Northeast India. To add to Diamond Harbour’s misery, Ajaraie delivered yet another assist — this time for Andy, who slotted home NorthEast United’s fifth, extending the lead to 5-1.

Determined to leave his mark, the Golden Boot winner calmly converted a stoppage-time penalty, confirming the Highlanders’ 6-1 triumph and their Durand Cup victory.

As the match ended, NorthEast United FC became the century’s first team to retain the Durand Cup by winning consecutive titles.