Shillong, Feb 4: Shillong is all set to make history as it hosts its first-ever Indian Super League (ISL) match on Friday. NorthEast United FC will take on Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The Guwahati-based NorthEast United FC will also play two more matches at the same venue—against Bengaluru FC on February 21 and East Bengal on March 8.
These games will bring some of India’s biggest football stars, including Sunil Chhetri, Lallianzuala Chhangte, and Naorem Mahesh Singh, to Shillong.
The club’s CEO, Mandar Tamhane, revealed that the idea of bringing ISL to Shillong was inspired by the overwhelming response to last year’s Durand Cup semi-final between NorthEast United and Shillong Lajong.
He was amazed to see online tickets selling out in just 12 minutes, fans queuing for miles to get physical tickets, and packed fan parks across Meghalaya.
“We always wanted to bring football to different parts of the Northeast, and after witnessing the passion here, we knew Shillong deserved ISL matches this season,” Tamhane said.
He also acknowledged the support from the Meghalaya government in making this move possible.
For Shillong’s very own Redeem Tlang, a key player for NorthEast United, this is a dream come true.
The forward, who has played over 100 ISL matches and was instrumental in NorthEast United’s Durand Cup triumph last year, couldn’t hide his excitement.
“It’s a special moment for me and for everyone in Meghalaya. Football is like a religion here, and now, ISL is coming to our doorstep. It’s an incredible feeling,” Tlang said.
With Shillong’s football fever at an all-time high, the city is ready to welcome the ISL with open arms.
Fans can expect an electric atmosphere as they witness top-tier Indian football in their own backyard.
