The final of the 2024 Durand Cup will be an exciting match between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and NorthEast United FC. It is scheduled to take place on August 31st at 5:30 PM IST in Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium), Kolkata;
Mohun Bagan Super Giant:
The giants of Kolkata are in pursuit of their 18th Durand Cup title, which would further enhance their reputation as legends of Indian football. They have relied on both youth and experience throughout the tournament making them one of the most consistent teams. Key players like Jason Cummings, Dimitri Petratos and Liston Colaco have been instrumental to their success contributing greatly during matches as well as providing several opportunities for goals.
NorthEast United FC:
On the other hand, NorthEast United aims at winning its first ever Durand cup trophy. The team has proven to be very resilient and tactically disciplined under their coach’s guidance. The defenders Michel Zabaco and Hamza Regragui have particularly stood out, making it hard for opponents to get through.
Recent Performances:
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Semi-final: Mohun Bagan’s journey to the final was marked by a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Bengaluru FC. The team displayed incredible grit, coming from two goals down to force the game into penalties, where they emerged victorious.
Quarter-final: In another high-octane match, they faced Punjab FC, which ended 3-3 in regulation time. Mohun Bagan once again showcased their composure, winning the tie in the penalty shootout.
Group Stage: Dominating their group, Mohun Bagan won both matches with an impressive goal tally, while keeping clean sheets, which speaks volumes about their balanced squad.
NorthEast United FC
Semi-final: NorthEast United cruised into the final with a commanding 3-0 victory over Shillong Lajong. Their performance was marked by early goals that set the tone, and a late strike that sealed the win.
Quarter-final: The team has been in exceptional form, winning all their matches leading up to the final, which has undoubtedly boosted their confidence.
Key Players to Watch
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Jason Cummings: The Australian forward has been the linchpin of Mohun Bagan’s attack, consistently finding the back of the net and being a constant threat to opposition defenses.
NorthEast United FC
Jithin MS and Parthib Gogoi: Both players have been in scintillating form, with each scoring four goals in the tournament. Their ability to score crucial goals could be the difference in the final.
Head-to-Head Record: A Psychological Edge?
Historically, Mohun Bagan Super Giant has had the upper hand against NorthEast United FC. In their 10 previous meetings, Mohun Bagan has won 7 times, NorthEast United has won 2 times, and there has been 1 draw. This record could give Mohun Bagan a psychological advantage, but with NorthEast United’s current form, the final could be a closely contested battle.
Predicted Lineups: Tactical Approaches
Mohun Bagan Super Giant (3-4-1-2)
Goalkeeper: Vishal Kaith
Defenders: Tom Aldred, Alberto Rodriguez, Dippendu Biswas
Midfielders: Asish Rai, Lalengmawia Ralte, Anirudh Thapa, Liston Colaco
Attacking Midfielder: Sahal Abdul Samad
Forwards: Greg Stewart, Dimitri Petratos
NorthEast United FC (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Mirshad Michu
Defenders: Dinesh Singh, Michel Zabaco, Asheer Akhtar, Buanthanglun Samte
Midfielders: Macarton Nickson, Mohammed Bemammer, Redeem Tlang
Forwards: Néstor Albiach, Parthib Gogoi, Tomi Juric
Injury Update: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
Mohun Bagan Super Giant
Subhasish Bose: The captain's participation remains uncertain after picking up an injury in the semi-final. While he has returned to light training, a final decision on his involvement will be made closer to the match.
Ashique Kuruniyan and Brendan Hamill: Both are confirmed absentees due to injuries and will miss the final, which could impact Mohun Bagan’s defensive solidity.
NorthEast United FC
Fully Fit Squad: NorthEast United has the luxury of a fully fit squad heading into the final, which could give them a significant advantage, especially in the later stages of the match.
It's been prepared the stage for what is likely to be an epic ending of the Durand Cup 2024. Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has ambitious mindset along with their history of victory will look for one more cup to put next on its shelf. In contrast, NorthEast United FC is determined to make history by winning its first ever Durand Cup.
Both teams are in top form and their match is predicted to be fiercely contested in which every goal, tackle or save made will matter a lot. It will be an exhilarating experience for soccer fans as they witness these two teams fight for endemic in one of the oldest soccer competitions in Asia.
