In an electrifying Durand Cup 2024 final showdown against the formidable Mohun Bagan, NorthEast United defied all odds to clinch a stunning victory. The triumph was not just a moment of glory for the players, the coach, and the dedicated support staff who had tirelessly labored for years to bring the team to this pinnacle of success, but also for their passionate owner, none other than the Bollywood superstar, John Abraham. Back in 2013, John made a bold and personal investment by purchasing NorthEast United, making him the sole proprietor. While many other franchises had been acquired by corporate entities, John chose to follow his heart and pour his own resources into nurturing his beloved team. It took 11 long years of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering belief before John could savor the sweet taste of victory on that memorable final day. The Durand Cup triumph was not just a validation of the team's hard work and determination but also a testament to John's unwavering commitment and unwavering passion for the beautiful game. As the players lifted their first major trophy, John stood proudly on the sidelines, knowing that his persistence and belief had finally paid off in the most glorious fashion.
Though NorthEast United are yet to win the Indian Super League, the country's premier football competition, the Durand Cup win against giants Mohun Bagan, is truly a moment to be cherished.
As football fans in India celebrate NorthEast United's success, an old interview of the actor John Abraham has surfaced were he spoke about suffering losses each year because of his ownership of NorthEast United.
''Every year, I suffer big losses (by investing in NUFC). I am an individual owner. The rest of the teams are owned by multi-billion dollar corporates. It becomes difficult for me to compete with them. I want to represent my team NorthEast United with a lot of pride. I cry when they lose but I love them. I have created it from scratch. I hope someone else takes it forward and does bigger things. I hope I get government backing," John could be heard saying in the video.
John
JOHN ABRAHAM PRIDE OF FOOTBALL #NeufcChampionDurandCup pic.twitter.com/KgPiVwMhBZ
But, the actor finally had a moment of fulfilment as NorthEast United defeated Mohun Bagan 4-3 in the Duran Cup final.
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"The feeling of winning the Durand Cup has not yet sunk in. This is just a lesson for all to never give up, to hold on to the team and support the team, not just in winning times but even when we are losing," John said after the game.
"There's light at the end of the tunnel and we proved it! Congratulations to the entire team and the staff... I am just a representation standing here talking on their behalf. The real heroes are the staff, the coach, players, and everyone involved in making this team," he said before adding, "Big congratulations to the team for making this happen. Also, to those fans, who stood by us and supported us through thick and thin... Thank you so much!"