Singh to the rescue!

Each time a team triumphs, fans frequently attribute its success to the offensive players' exploits and the coach's strategic acumen throughout 90 minutes of the game.

Yet, a goalkeeper's heroics, no matter how great, often go unnoticed. Gurmeet Singh, however, seized the spotlight in the Durand Cup final on Saturday, decisively dispelling any notions of being overlooked or undervalued.

Just who knew Singh would go on to deliver a series of extraordinary saves that would make even the most seasoned shot-stoppers envious? Thanks to the 24-year-old, NorthEast United FC defied expectations and historical odds to clinch their first-ever Durand Cup title, triumphing 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout against Mohun Bagan.

Singh's uncanny ability to read the game and exhibit flawless footwork was exemplified when he denied Liston Colaco's third attempt with an athletic dive.

In the fifth round, his unyielding presence thwarted Bagan captain Subhasish Bose, effectively sealing the victory for his side. This heroic display was complemented by goals from Guillermo Fernandez, captain Miguel Zabaco Tome, Parthib Gogoi, and Alaaeddine Ajaraei in the shootout.

Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan's attempts from Jason Cummings, Manvir Singh, and Dimitri Petratos were not enough to prevent their 13th runners-up finish in the historic tournament, which has been contested for 133 editions. This result was particularly poignant for Bollywood actor John Abraham's team, who, after a decade of competitive play, finally secured their first piece of silverware in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium.

The emotional climax saw Bagan goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, who had been instrumental in earlier matches, left disheartened as the NorthEast United players erupted in celebration. Kaith, whose earlier performances had included crucial saves in the quarterfinals and semifinals, found himself powerless against Singh's masterclass.

The match unfolded as a tale of two contrasting halves. Bagan, managed by Jose Molina and seeking a record-extending 18th title, dominated the first half. They took an early lead through a penalty awarded after NEUFC's Asheer Akhtar fouled Sahal Abdul Samad. Jason Cummings converted the spot-kick, and just before the break, Sahal Abdul Samad added a second with a deft finish following a superb setup from Greg Stewart.

The Highlanders, however, emerged from halftime with renewed vigour. They capitalised on a lapse in Mohun Bagan's defense right after the restart, with Alaaeddine Ajaraei and substitute Guillermo Fernandez scoring within a span of three minutes. Ajaraei's strike was a clever finish, using a pass from Jithin MS, who had earlier orchestrated a key play by drawing in defenders before providing the assist.

Coach Juan Pedro Benali's strategic decision to substitute Thoi Singh with Guillermo Fernandez proved crucial. Fernandez's impact was immediate, as he latched onto an Ajaraei cross to level the score with a thunderous volley. His performance was a testament to Benali's tactical acumen and the Highlanders' resilience.

The second half saw NEUFC come close to seizing the lead when Jithin MS unleashed a powerful volley from outside the box, only for Kaith to make an equally impressive save. Despite the efforts of Mohun Bagan's attacking lineup and the first-half dominance, they failed to maintain their advantage and eventually succumbed to the Highlanders' relentless pursuit.

In the first half, Mohun Bagan appeared in control, with opportunities and dominance marked by a defensive blunder from NEUFC's Asheer Akhtar and subsequently missed chances by Greg Stewart. Despite their lead, they struggled to consolidate their position, and their complacency became apparent in the second half.

The tactical prowess of Benali was evident as NEUFC adapted to Mohun Bagan's shifts in play, exploiting their defensive lapses. The inability of Mohun Bagan to defend its title highlighted a critical oversight in its strategy and execution.

Singh succeeded in making his name synonymous with Saturday night's triumph.

Though no team plans to be in a position to make the goalkeeper the most valuable player on the pitch, Singh stands as a reminder that the role cannot remain undervalued.

(With inputs from ANI)