Indian Super League (ISL) club NorthEast United FC edged past Shillong Lajong FC by a 1-0 scoreline in the first semi-final of the Durand Cup 2025 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong, on Tuesday.

Redeem Tlang scored the solitary goal in the first half, which saw the Highlanders seal their spot in the Durand Cup final for the second time in a row.

NEUFC started the game on the front foot, creating a couple of chances with Alaaeddine Ajaraie, Jithin MS, and others.

The Highlanders came close to breaking the deadlock in the 25th minute with Michel Zabaco, but the defender’s attempt from the left side of the box missed the target.

Juan Pedro Benali’s men opened the scoring thanks to Tlang’s long-range strike that beat the opponent's goalkeeper and put NorthEast United FC ahead in the game.

That goal from local lad Tlang was enough to separate the two sides at the halfway stage.

Both sides had their chances in the second half as well, but couldn’t find the back of the net as the scoreline remained unchanged.

Andy Rodriguez had a crucial chance to double the lead, but the midfielder’s shot was denied by the side post. In the 77th minute, Thoi Singh attempted a shot from close range inside the box, but it went just off-target.

With that, the defending Durand Cup champions secured a crucial, narrow win over Shillong Lajong FC to seal their spot in the final.

They will now face the winner of the second semi-final, which is between Diamond Harbour FC and East Bengal FC on Wednesday.