Mohun Bagan vs NorthEast United, Durand Cup 2024: Highlanders create history winning first-ever trophy with 3-4 win on penalties

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In a pulsating Durand Cup semifinal at Salt Lake Stadium, Mohun Bagan SG and NorthEast United FC clashed in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The game, which ended 2-2 in regulation time, was ultimately decided by a dramatic penalty shootout, where NorthEast United emerged victorious, securing their first-ever Durand Cup final appearance with a 4-3 win.

Mohun Bagan started the match strongly, with Jason Cummings converting a penalty in the 11th minute after Sahal Abdul Samad was brought down in the box. The Mariners dominated possession in the first half.

They controlled 62% of the ball and created several scoring opportunities. Their efforts were rewarded in the dying moments of the first half when Sahal doubled their lead, capitalizing on a precise pass from Cummings to make it 2-0.

However, the second half saw a rejuvenated NorthEast United side take the field. The Highlanders, who had been outplayed in the first 45 minutes, came out with renewed vigor.

Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Ajaraie pulled one back with a clinical finish. Just three minutes later, Guillermo's screamer from outside the box leveled the score, sending shockwaves through the Mohun Bagan defense.

The momentum had clearly shifted in favor of NorthEast United, who continued to press and create chances, but Mohun Bagan's goalkeeper Vishal Kaith stood firm, making crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Despite the Highlanders' relentless pressure, the score remained tied at 2-2 at the end of 90 minutes, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, both teams displayed nerves of steel, but it was NorthEast United's goalkeeper Gurmeet who emerged as the hero. He saved penalties from Liston Colaco and Mohun Bagan captain Subhasish Bose, while Ajaraie, Guillermo, Zabaco, and Parthib Gogoi converted their spot-kicks for NorthEast United.

Petratos, Manvir Singh, and Cummings scored for Mohun Bagan, but it wasn't enough to prevent a 4-3 defeat. This victory marks a historic moment for NorthEast United, as they secured their first-ever Durand Cup final appearance, defeating the defending champions and Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan.