NorthEast United FC cruises past Bodoland FC in a 4-0 victory, securing a semi-final matchup against Shillong Lajong in the Durand Cup.
NorthEast United Advance to Durand Cup Final with 1-0 Semifinal Victory over Shillong Lajong
The Durand Cup 2025 semifinal matchup between Shillong Lajong FC and NorthEast United FC took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on August 19, 2025. In a closely contested match, NorthEast United FC emerged victorious, securing a 1-0 win and booking their place in the final.
The lone goal of the match was a notable long-range strike by Redeem Tlang, a former Shillong Lajong player born in Shillong. Tlang's goal came in the 53rd minute, with Andy Gaitan providing the assist. Gaitan, who had joined NorthEast United this season, scored his first goal for the side in the same match, making it 2-0 for NorthEast United.
NorthEast United entered the semifinal as defending champions and favourites, while Shillong Lajong were seen as the underdogs. However, Shillong Lajong showed strong attacking form throughout the tournament, as evidenced by their quarterfinal win over Indian Navy FT. In that match, Damaitphang Lyngdoh and Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah scored for Shillong Lajong, overcoming an early goal deficit to win 2-1.
In their respective quarterfinals, NorthEast United had a commanding 4-0 victory over Bodoland FC. Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie scored twice, making him the top scorer of the tournament at that point with seven goals and one assist. This win followed a 2-2 draw with Rangdajied United in the group stage.
The Durand Cup final will take place on a date to be announced, where NorthEast United will aim to defend their title against the yet-to-be-determined opponent.
NorthEast United's triumph in the Durand Cup 2025 semifinal against Shillong Lajong signifies their ongoing pursuit of both sports and health. For the upcoming Durand Cup final, NorthEast United will be striving for another victory in football, aiming to preserve their title and maintain their fitness and well-being.
