Durand Cup Final: NorthEast win first title, beat Mohun Bagan 4-3 in penalties

NorthEast United clinched what was their first-ever major title with the Durand Cup 2024, and that too, with a comeback win against heavyweights and defending champions MohunBagan Super Giants in the final on August 31. Going down 2-0 at the end of the first-half, NorthEast pulled themselves back into the game from the very get-go of the second-half and went on win the clash by 4-3 on penalties.

In what was truly a thrilling Cup final, Mohun Bagan Super Giants showcased their clinical prowess, especially in the first half, but were ultimately unable to secure victory against NorthEast United FC. The defending champions took an early lead, capitalising on a penalty awarded in the 12th minute. Jason Cummings stepped up and coolly converted, giving MBSG a 1-0 advantage. As the first half drew to a close, Liston Colaco delivered a precise cross to Sahal Abdul Samad, who volleyed it into the net, doubling MBSG's lead during added time and sending



them into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 cushion.

However, the second half belonged to NorthEast United, who mounted a remarkable comeback. NEUFC brought on Guillermo, and his presence made an immediate impact. In the 59th minute, Ajarie slotted the ball past MBSG goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, narrowing the deficit. The momentum continued as Guillermo levelled the score just seconds later with a stunning volley, bringing the match back to 2-2 and setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.

With the scores tied, the match headed into a penalty shootout. Controversy struck when Jason Cummings, who had missed his first attempt, was allowed to retake the penalty due to the NEUFC goalkeeper stepping off his line. Cummings made no mistake the second time, converting his penalty. However, the match's decisive moment came when MBSG skipper Subhashish Bose missed his spot-kick, handing NEUFC their first piece of silverware.