The Durand Cup 2025 final is set to be a thrilling encounter between the reigning champions, NorthEast United FC (NEUFC), and the debutants, Diamond Harbour FC (DHFC). The match will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium) in Kolkata, with a scheduled kick-off time of 5:30 PM IST.
NorthEast United FC, an Indian Super League (ISL) team, is aiming to win back-to-back Durand Cup titles. Having won their first major title in the same competition last year, they will be eager to retain the title. The Highlanders topped their group and cruised past Bodoland FC 4-0 in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, they edged out Shillong Lajong in the northeast derby to make the final. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie has been instrumental in NEUFC's campaign, leading the tournament with seven goals. Captain Míchel Zabaco has also been in good form. Coached by Juan Pedro Benali, NorthEast has been a balanced unit, scoring 12 goals and conceding just four.
Diamond Harbour FC, on the other hand, is the surprise package of this year's tournament. Formed in 2020, the West Bengal side earned promotion to the I-League by winning the I-League 2 last season and are playing their first major tournament in Indian football. In their debut Durand Cup campaign, they have defied expectations by reaching the final. They upset East Bengal 2-1 in the semi-finals and also defeated Mohammedan Sporting in the group stage. Their campaign has been driven by Brazilian striker Clayton Silva and Slovenian forward Luka Majcen, who have each scored four goals. Kibu Vicuna coaches Diamond Harbour FC.
The final is poised to be a classic David vs Goliath battle, with NorthEast United being the favorites and Diamond Harbour looking to continue their dream debut. A victory for NEUFC would strengthen their standing in Indian football, while a win for DHFC would mark a historic achievement in their young history. The winner will receive a prize of ₹1.21 crore.
Key battles to watch include Alaaeddine Ajaraie vs. Ajith Kumar and Andy Rodriguez vs. Samuel Lalmuanpuia. Ajaraie, the leading goal scorer, will be up against Ajith Kumar, who had a commanding display against East Bengal. The midfield battle between Rodriguez and Samuel will dictate the tempo of the final.
The Durand Cup 2025 final will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network in India. Live streaming will be available on SonyLiv.
