NorthEast United FC reach back-to-back Durand Cup finals*

Redeem Tlang, a local Shillong lad, scored the only and winning goal against his former side, Shillong Lajong FC, as NorthEast United FC reached the second consecutive Durand Cup final with a gritty 1-0 victory in the Northeast derby at the JN Stadium here on Tuesday.

Tlang, who began his professional career at Shillong Lajong, struck in the 36th minute with a long-range effort that flew past the diving Lajong custodian. In a gesture of respect, he immediately raised his hands in apology to the crowd that once cheered for him.

The clash carried echoes of the group stage but more so of last season’s semifinal, when NorthEast United overcame Lajong 3-0 en route to lifting their maiden Durand Cup trophy.

This time too, the derby lived up to its billing, with both sides starting cautiously before the Highlanders carved out the better chances. Within the opening minutes, Chema Nunez forced a save with a header from Alaaeddine Ajaraie’s cross, while skipper Michel Zabaco tested the side netting following a corner sequence.

The game saw a pause around the half-hour mark when the referee limped off injured, leading to an unusual substitution of officials. Soon after play resumed, Mayakkannan’s relentless pressing won back possession, and Tlang pounced, driving forward and unleashing the strike that defined the semifinal.

Head coach Juan Pedro Benali later introduced fresh legs, bringing on Thoi Singh, Parthib Gogoi, Jairo Samperio and Macarton Nickson to give his side more firepower. The Highlanders created numerous goal-scoring opportunities but could not add to their tally.

At the same time, at the back, Zabaco marshalled the defence with Asheer Akhtar, Buanthanglun Samte, and Tlang working tirelessly alongside shielders Andy Rodriguez and Mayakkannan to keep custodian Gurmeet Singh untroubled.

As the clock wound down, Shillong Lajong threw bodies forward in search of an equaliser, but the Highlanders stood firm. At the final whistle, NorthEast United had made history by marching into their second straight Durand Cup final, and the win was sealed by one of the sons of the land.

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