Thrilling Victory: NorthEast United Wins Durand Cup 2024

In the 2024 Durand Cup final, NorthEast United bagged the first trophy in their history with a thrilling comeback victory against Mohun Bagan, decided by a penalty shootout. Mohun Bagan dominated the first half, but strategic changes made by the NorthEast United coach Juan Pedro Benali brought a turn in the game. The introduction of Guillermo Fernandez and repositioning Alaeddine Ajaraie to the left resulted in the equalizing goals that led to the penalty shootout. 

Despite Mohun Bagan's early penalty goal by Jason Cummings and Sahal Abdul Samad's intriguing performance, NorthEast United managed to keep the giants at bay. Two quick goals from the underdogs flipped the script, leading to a second-half dominated by NorthEast United. However, Bagan held firm, pushing the thrilling final to penalties.

Standout performances from Jithin, Ajaraie, and Guillermo turned the tides in favour of NorthEast United. The decisive moment came during the penalty shootout, with Gurmeet Singh blocking shots from Liston Colaco and Subasish Bose, securing a 4-3 win for NorthEast United on penalties.