NorthEast United FC secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Shillong Lajong in the semi-final of the 133rd Durand Cup, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Monday. This win marks NEUFC’s historic entry into the Durand Cup final for the first time.
The match began with Shillong Lajong showing early promise, as Phrangki Buam caused trouble down the right wing, earning two corners within the first five minutes. However, they couldn’t capitalize on the opportunities, despite the roaring support from the home crowd.
NEUFC’s first major chance came through Jithin MS, as the visitors aimed to counterattack with speed. Their breakthrough arrived in the 13th minute when Alaaeddine Ajaraie skillfully controlled a throw-in from the left and set up Jithin with a neat backheel pass. Jithin’s low cross across the goal was met by Thoi Singh, who slotted the ball into the net, silencing the home crowd.
Just two minutes later, Thoi and Jithin nearly combined again for a second goal, but a crucial defensive intervention from a Lajong defender kept the scoreline unchanged.
In the 27th minute, Shillong Lajong’s Wadajied Kynsia Ryngkhlem nearly equalized with a deflected shot from outside the box, but NEUFC goalkeeper Gurmeet managed to keep it out.
NEUFC doubled their lead shortly after when Nestor Roger played a brilliant ball over the top for Ajaraie, whose initial shot hit the post. However, Ajaraie quickly reacted to put the ball in the back of the net. The linesman initially flagged for offside, leading to confusion, but after a brief consultation, the goal was allowed, much to the dismay of the home fans.
As the match progressed, Shillong Lajong struggled to keep up with NEUFC’s control of the game. Juan Pedro Benali’s side continued to dominate possession, while Shillong Lajong’s initial energy seemed to wane.
Hardy Cliff Nongbri’s long-range effort in the 65th minute went wide, reflecting Shillong Lajong’s growing desperation. In response, the NEUFC coach made defensive adjustments around the 75th minute, aiming to secure the lead.
Shillong Lajong’s fans, who had been lively early on, fell silent as their team struggled to create meaningful chances. The match was effectively sealed in the 90th minute when Ronney Wilson Kharbudon was sent off for dissent, receiving a second yellow card after sarcastically clapping in the referee’s face.
In the third minute of added time, substitute Parthib Gogoi added a final touch to NEUFC’s victory, dribbling past defenders on the left flank before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper.
As the final whistle blew, some Lajong fans stayed back to applaud NEUFC’s performance, while the visiting fans celebrated their team’s historic achievement of reaching the Durand Cup final.