Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, Aug 24: Defending champions NorthEast United FC produced a stunning display of attacking football to thrash debutants Diamond Harbour FC 6-1 in the grand finale of the 134th Durand Cup at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday. With six different goal-scorers, the Highlanders sealed their second successive title in emphatic fashion, becoming the first team in 25 years to defend the prestigious trophy.

Asheer Akhtar (30’), Parthib Gogoi (45+1’), Thoi Singh (50’), Jairo (81’), Andy (85’) and Alaaeddine Ajaraie (90+3’) found the net for the champions, while Diamond Harbour managed a consolation in the 68th minute when Jobby Justin’s header deflected off Luka Majcen into the goal.

NorthEast took control after a cagey opening, breaking the deadlock from a corner as Akhtar fired home in the 30th minute. Just before halftime, Gogoi doubled the lead with a fine curling finish, giving the Highlanders a commanding 2-0 advantage at the break.

The onslaught continued after the restart with Thoi Singh adding a third in the 50th minute. Although Diamond Harbour briefly fought back with Justin’s goal, NorthEast quickly tightened their grip. Jairo’s thunderous strike, Andy’s sliding finish and Ajaraie’s late penalty sealed the 6-1 triumph, with Ajaraie contributing three assists and a goal in a brilliant all-round display.

As the final whistle blew, jubilant celebrations erupted in the Highlanders’ camp as they lifted the Durand Cup trophy for the second consecutive year, scripting history with back-to-back triumphs.