Durand Cup: Mohun Bagan eye 18th title against first-time finalist NorthEast United

Pinnacle match set to take place in Kolkata on Saturday at 5.30 pm

IANS

Updated At : 02:47 PM Aug 30, 2024 IST

Mohun Bagan Super Giants players celebrate after winning Durand Cup semifinal against Bengaluru FC, at VYBK Stadium in Kolkata. PTI

New Delhi, August 30

After a thrilling and intense month of competition, the Durand Cup has reached its pinnacle. In the 133rd edition of this competition, the grand finale would see Mohun Bagan SG and NorthEast United FC face off to be crowned champions.

The pinnacle match is set to take place at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday, August 31 at 5.30 pm.

As record 17-time Durand Cup champions, Mohun Bagan SG are aiming for their 18th title to solidify their status as the team with the most Durand Cup titles.

The Mariners dominated the group stage, winning all their matches with seven goals scored and none conceded. They advanced to the quarterfinal, where their game against Punjab FC ended 3-3 with Bagan coming through on penalties. In the semifinal, a penalty shootout followed a 2-2 draw in normal time, with Vishal Kaith's heroics securing the Kolkata giants' place in a second consecutive Durand Cup final.

Mohun Bagan's attack is spearheaded by Jason Cummings, Dimitri Petratos, and Liston Colaco, with Anirudh Thapa and Sahal Abdul Samad providing crucial support in midfield. Their defence is anchored by the likes of Alberto, Thomas Aldred, and Subhasish Bose and the ever-reliable Vishal Kaith under the bar, who all have been pivotal in blocking opposition forays.

NorthEast United FC have already made history by reaching the Durand Cup finals for the first time ever, overcoming arch-rivals Shillong Lajong in the semifinals. 'The Highlanders' were also dominant in the group stage, winning all three matches with a blistering 10-goal tally while conceding just one. Under the guidance of Juan Pedro Benali, they showcased their tactical prowess and defensive solidity by comfortably advancing past the Indian Army in the quarterfinal. In the Northeastern derby against Shillong Lajong FC, NorthEast United secured a commanding 3-0 victory in the semifinal to seal their place in the finals.

The team's core strength is highlighted by Guillermo Fernández and Jithin MS, who are tied as the second-highest scorers in the competition, making their attack a key asset in their quest for glory. IANS