Daijiworld Media Network- Kolkata

Kolkata, Aug 21: In a sensational upset at the 134th Durand Cup, debutants Diamond Harbour FC scripted history by defeating Kolkata giants East Bengal 2-1 in the semifinal on Wednesday, booking their maiden berth in the tournament final.

Goals from Mikel Idiakez and Joby Justin sealed the victory for the newcomers, while Anwar Ali’s thunderous long-range strike briefly kept East Bengal in the contest.

The opening half saw Diamond Harbour dominate early proceedings, with Joby Justin nearly breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute, only to be denied by East Bengal goalkeeper Prabhsukan Gill. Anwar Ali came close two minutes later, but his attempt went narrowly wide. East Bengal then regrouped, with Diamantakos heading off target from a Mahesh cross and later rattling the crossbar just before halftime.

The second half, however, brought the game alive. Against the run of play, Idiakez produced a moment of brilliance. Off a free-kick delivery, the Spaniard, with his back to goal, executed a stunning back-volley that left Gill rooted and gave Diamond Harbour a 1-0 lead.

East Bengal’s response was immediate, as Anwar Ali unleashed a spectacular 40-yard screamer that swerved viciously at the last second, leaving goalkeeper Mirshad helpless and restoring parity for the Red & Golds.

Despite coach Carles Vicuna throwing on experienced reinforcements including Girik Khosla and Basim Rashid, it was Diamond Harbour who struck again. From an Angousana corner, a scramble inside the box ended with Joby Justin calmly slotting home from close range, sending the Diamonds’ bench and fans into raptures.

The result means Diamond Harbour FC, in their debut Durand Cup campaign, will now face NorthEast United FC in the grand finale—a clash that promises fireworks.