Historic Showdown Beckons: Diamond Harbour FC vs Northeast United FC in Durand Cup 2025 Final

Kolkata, August 22: Kolkata braces itself for a night of history and passion as the 134th edition of the Durand Cup reaches its grand finale at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday evening. Kick-off is set for 5:30 PM, and all eyes will be on debutants Diamond Harbour FC (DHFC) as they face defending champions Northeast United FC (NEUFC) in a clash of contrasting journeys.

Diamond Harbour FC – The Fairytale Run

In their maiden Durand Cup appearance, Diamond Harbour FC have scripted a story for the ages. Representing Kolkata in the absence of the traditional giants, the I-League newcomers have overcome every hurdle with grit and flair.

Their campaign began with a tough group stage before storming through the knockouts, knocking out heavyweights ISL clubs like Mohammedan Sporting, Jamshedpur FC, and East Bengal FC. To reach the final on debut already places them in the tournament’s history books as the first debutant side to make the Durand Cup final.

Spanish coach Kibu Vicuna has built a side high on belief and tactical discipline. However, injury concerns rise, Haricharan Narzary got injured in the semifinal and is unlikely to feature, while Clayton Silveira remains three to four weeks away from fitness. On the positive side, new signing Bryce Miranda (on loan from Inter Kashi) has joined training and could be included in the matchday squad.

Northeast United FC – The Defending Champions

The Highlanders arrive in Kolkata with momentum and pedigree. Having clinched their first-ever title the Durand Cup last year, Pedro Benali’s men are determined to defend their crown and establish a consistency.

Their route to the final has been less turbulent but no less intense. NEUFC have yet to face an ISL opponent in the tournament but have come through two fiery Northeast derbies, defeating Shillong Lajong FC twice. Unlike their opponents, they boast with a suspension-free squad, with Benali confirming the full-strength side has traveled to Kolkata.

The Stakes

Northeast United FC’s Alaaeddine is leading the Golden Boot stakes with 7 goals in 5 matches and an assist, looking to fire the Highlanders to back-to-back Durand Cup glory. Chasing him DHFC’s Luka Majcen with 4 goals, driving his team’s dream run to the final.

For Diamond Harbour FC, victory would be nothing short of monumental an I-League newcomer conquering Asia’s oldest and most prestigious tournament in its very first attempt. It would not only announce their arrival on the national stage but also give Kolkata a new name to cheer for in the absence of traditional heavyweights.

For Northeast United FC, the stakes are equally high. A successful defense of their title would cement their legacy and prove their dominance in cup competitions, particularly in a tournament that has always carried prestige beyond silverware.

Coaches View

We are newcomers, but we are here to fight like champions – Kibu Vicuña ahead of the Durand Cup Final

“We know what we are, we are an I-League newcomer, this is the reality, newcomer in the I-League and we are going to play against the champion. We need to maintain, and it’s important for us to control the motions but be ambitious. Have self-confidence in everyone and confidence in the team. We are going to do and give our hundred percent. We are very happy, we are very proud but also we want to continue our run. Proud to represent Bengal, we are going to give our best as possible and will try to get the best result.” Kibu Vicuna said.

Finals don’t care about leagues or names, it’s two teams, one trophy – Benali

“I am staying confident in this last game as the last final, this is the final, there is no new team, your team, ISL, league, absolutely nothing, this is two teams playing in the final. We have all respects, very good team, they beat East Bengal in the semifinal, beat the team everyone said is favourite winning the cup, so they have very strong team with good players, good coach. Tomorrow everyone must be staring football, football will be tomorrow.” Pedro Benali said

The VYBK is set for a battle of dreams and determination and mind game of spaniard. On one side, a debutant side riding the wave of belief, and on the other, a champion looking to extend its reign. The 134th Durand Cup final promises drama, intensity, and perhaps the making of history.

Kolkata awaits. Kick-off at 5:30 PM.