ISL 2024-25: Football fans in Meghalaya have exciting news to look forward to. The city of Shillong has been officially selected to host Indian Super League (ISL) matches for NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) during the 2024-25 season. This decision marks a major step for the club and the football community in the region, especially considering Shillong’s deep-rooted football culture.
NorthEast United FC Matches at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium for ISL 2024-25
The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong is set to become the new home for NEUFC matches towards the latter part of the ISL season, likely around February or March 2025. Initially, NEUFC will play their home games at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, Assam. The move to Shillong will be a gradual one, with the team expected to play around two to three matches at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium by the end of the season.
NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane confirmed the development, stating, “The ISL is very very cooperative with having the matches here (Shillong) and I think before the end of this season maybe in the month of February-March, NorthEast United could be playing two-three home matches here at the JN Stadium.”
Renovations to Meet ISL Standards
To host ISL matches smoothly, the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong will undergo necessary renovations. These improvements will ensure that the stadium meets the required standards for ISL games. NorthEast United FC has worked closely with the Meghalaya State government, offering recommendations for the upgrades needed to make the venue ready for top-tier football action.
NorthEast United’s Mission in the Region
NEUFC is more than just a football club for the North-East; it represents the region’s passion for football. The club aims to contribute to the local football ecosystem by engaging in grassroots programs and setting up residential academies. NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane emphasized the importance of developing football infrastructure in the North-East, stating, “These structural changes which normally take time need to be addressed and once they are being taken care [of] then we are good to host with the Indian Super League here.”
Players and Fans Excited for Shillong Matches
NEUFC players are enthusiastic about the opportunity to play in Shillong, which has a strong football fan base. Parthib Gogoi, one of the club’s key players, mentioned that the large, passionate crowd in Shillong will give the team added confidence. “The crowd are more here than in Guwahati, it gives us the confidence and the desire to win,” he said.
Redeem Tlang echoed similar sentiments, expressing his excitement to play in front of the home fans in Shillong, adding, “I cannot wait to play at home in front of the crowd in Shillong.”
FAQs
Which city will host NorthEast United FC matches in the 2024-25 ISL season?
Shillong, Meghalaya, will host the matches.
When will NorthEast United FC play in Shillong?
They are expected to play two to three home matches at the end of the season, likely in February-March 2025.
Where will the 2024-25 ISL season matches be held in Shillong?
The matches will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
