August 26, 2025

Kolkata turned electric as Northeast United FC’s coach Juan Pedro Benali, proudly wearing the Durand Cup champion’s medal, was joyously drenched in water and energy drinks by his jubilant players and staff at Salt Lake Stadium. It was celebration time after NEUFC’s spectacular 6-1 win over Diamond Harbour FC in the Durand Cup final, sealing back-to-back titles in Asia’s oldest football tournament. Football in India has been facing tough times lately, but Benali and his team are making a big splash! With this historic win, NEUFC became the first team in 30 years to defend the Durand Cup title. The last to do it was East Bengal back in 1991. Benali, the Spanish coach who took charge this season, admitted the transformation is real. “It has been quite an exhilarating ride,” he said, recalling last year when NEUFC arrived as underdogs but stunned giants Mohun Bagan SG to grab their first trophy since joining Indian Super League in 2014. “Now, this more mature team has a winning mentality,” he added, glowing with pride. The final against debutants Diamond Harbour FC was a tough test, but NEUFC’s powerful display showed they are no longer just participants but serious title contenders. Striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie was the star, ending the tournament with a fantastic eight goals. He took home both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot awards, becoming the heart of NEUFC’s success story. Despite some top Indian Super League teams skipping this Durand edition, Benali hopes the win will act as a stepping stone for bigger trophies. He said, “There will be a few days’ rest for the players. But we wake up in the morning waiting for some good news. We hope very soon we get an agreement, allowing football to come back to India.” This winning spirit and the roar of the fans might just mark the dawn of a new era for Indian football. With NEUFC leading by example, the game is ready to make a grand comeback, with colorful celebrations and dreams shining brighter than ever.

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Tags: Northeast united fc, Durand cup, Juan pedro benali, Indian football, Diamond harbour fc, Indian super league,