John Abraham and his NorthEast United FC team honored at Rashtrapati Bhawan
27 August 2025, New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu extended her warm felicitation to the champions of NorthEast United Football Club after their landmark victory in the 134th Durand Cup. The Maharajas of Indian club football—better known as The Highlanders—were welcomed to Rashtrapati Bhavan in all their glory, where they were presented with the prestigious President’s Cup in a ceremony that will echo through sporting history.
The President’s Cup, established in 1956 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, has long been a symbol of sporting excellence and national pride, making this moment even more significant.
NorthEast United FC won the Durand Cup 2025 football tournament by defeating Diamond Harbour 6-1 in the final, which took place in Kolkata on August 23. The Durand Cup 2025 marked the 134th edition of the Durand Cup, recognized as the world's third-oldest cup football competition and the oldest in Asia.
Clad in pride and sporting finesse, NEUFC owner John Abraham, captain Redeem Tlang, and CEO Mandar Tamhane accepted the symbols of victory with humility and grace, surrounded by dignitaries and organizers of India’s oldest football tournament.
Abraham highlighted the occasion by applauding the enduring legacy of India’s armed forces in fostering the sport. He particularly praised the Eastern Command for its significant role in promoting football throughout the Northeast, demonstrating the game's influence beyond just the pitch.
The gathering concluded with a memorable team photo, capturing this golden chapter in the history of Indian football—a snapshot poised to inspire future generations.
Behind the Glory: Why This Triumph Matters?
This isn't merely NEUFC’s first trophy; it's a significant statement. In August 2025, they dazzled in the Durand Cup final with an impressive 6-1 victory over debutants Diamond Harbour FC, marking the first time in 25 years that a team has successfully defended the title.
The playmaker behind the magic?
Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who excelled in both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot rankings, scored eight goals.
The final, which took place on August 23, 2025, at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, concluded with an emphatic flourish—six goals from six different scorers highlighted the Highlanders’ depth and dynamism.
