The Durand Cup 2025 final is set to be a thrilling encounter between defending champions NorthEast United FC and debutants Diamond Harbour FC. The match will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata, West Bengal, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST).

For fans in India eager to catch the action live, the Durand Cup 2025 Final will be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network. Live streaming will also be available on the SonyLiv app. This ensures that fans across the country can witness the historic showdown, whether on television or their preferred digital devices.

NorthEast United FC, the reigning champions, are aiming to secure their second consecutive Durand Cup title. Having demonstrated consistency and resilience throughout the tournament, they are considered a strong contender. The Highlanders topped Group E and showcased their strength in the knockout stages, defeating Bodoland FC 4-0 in the quarter-finals and edging out Shillong Lajong 1-0 in the semi-finals. Key players for NorthEast United include Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who is the tournament's top scorer with seven goals, and captain Míchel Zabaco, known for his defensive prowess.

Diamond Harbour FC, on the other hand, have emerged as the surprise package of the tournament. Making their Durand Cup debut, the Kolkata-based club has defied expectations by reaching the final. Their journey has been marked by impressive victories, including a 2-1 win over Mohammedan SC in the group stage and a 2-1 upset against East Bengal in the semi-finals. Diamond Harbour's attack is led by Brazilian Clayton Silva and Slovenian Luka Majcen, both of whom have scored four goals each in the tournament. Coached by Kibu Vicuña, Diamond Harbour's success is a remarkable story of a team that was formed in 2020 and has quickly risen through the ranks of Indian football.

The final promises to be an exciting contest between NorthEast United's experience and Diamond Harbour's youthful exuberance. NorthEast United is looking to become the first team in over three decades to retain the Durand Cup title. The last team to achieve this feat was East Bengal, who won three consecutive titles from 1989 to 1991. Diamond Harbour, meanwhile, are aiming to become the first debutant team to win the Durand Cup. A victory would be a historic achievement for the club, solidifying their place in Indian football history.

The winners of the Durand Cup 2025 will not only lift the prestigious trophy but also receive a prize money of Rs 1.21 crore, the highest champion's purse in the tournament's 137-year history.