In a historic move for Meghalaya, the city of Shillong is all set to host its first Indian Super League (ISL) match on February 7, 2025, as NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) faces off against Mumbai City FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. This match marks a momentous milestone for the city and its football-loving community, with NEUFC CEO Mandar Tamhane expressing his strong belief that Shillong could soon become the football capital of India.
The decision to bring the prestigious ISL to Shillong is a testament to the city’s deep-rooted love for football and its passionate fan base. Tamhane, reflecting on the club’s journey to bring the ISL to Shillong, shared his excitement and the powerful influence that the city’s football culture has had on him.
Shillong’s Football Culture: A Legacy of Passion and Dedication
Tamhane recalled a memorable experience from the Durand Cup semifinal, where Shillong Lajong FC took on NorthEast United FC. The match left a lasting impression on him, reinforcing his belief in the immense potential of Shillong as a football hub. “Even after 25 years in Indian football, I was stunned by the response. Online tickets sold out in 12 minutes, and there were five-kilometer-long queues for physical tickets. Fan parks were packed, and we could feel the pulse of Shillong’s football culture,” Tamhane remarked.
This overwhelming response confirmed the decision to bring ISL matches to Shillong, a move that many had been hoping for in the city and across the Northeast region. Tamhane emphasized the cultural importance of football in the region, highlighting that NEUFC represents eight states in the Northeast, and they had always dreamed of bringing the league to this part of India. The Durand Cup was a precursor to the excitement and enthusiasm that the ISL debut would bring to the people of Meghalaya.
Government of Meghalaya’s Role in Promoting Football
The Government of Meghalaya has played a crucial role in making this dream a reality. Tamhane credited the state government for its unwavering support in turning Shillong into a football hub. Their efforts have not only enabled the city to host ISL matches but also helped foster a stronger football infrastructure and a sustainable growth environment for the sport.
“They’ve been instrumental in making this happen, and together, we’re working towards making Shillong the football capital of India,” said Tamhane. The support of the government has created an environment where football can thrive, inspiring both players and fans to unite and take the sport to greater heights in the region.
Redeem Tlang’s Special Moment: A Dream Come True
For Redeem Tlang, a proud Shillong native and NEUFC forward, the arrival of ISL matches in his hometown is nothing short of a dream come true. Tlang, who has over 100 ISL appearances to his name and was a key player in the club’s 2024 Durand Cup victory, expressed his excitement about playing in front of his home crowd. He believes that having the ISL in Shillong will be a monumental moment for football in the region.
“It’s an incredibly special moment for me and the people of Meghalaya. Football is deeply loved here, and to have the ISL come to our city is surreal,” Tlang said. His words reflect the sentiments of many local fans who are eager to witness the highest level of Indian football in their own city. Tlang also urged the fans to show their unwavering support, stating, “I urge the fans to show their support and cheer us on from start to finish. Their energy will give us the extra boost we need.”
Football: A Way of Life in Shillong
Tlang’s connection to football runs deep. Football is not just a sport in Shillong; it is a way of life. “Football is like a religion here. It’s the first sport you play as a child, and you’ll find people of all ages playing everywhere,” Tlang recalled. His journey into professional football began with Shillong Lajong FC in 2013, but it was his family’s influence and the city’s passion for the game that truly fueled his dedication to the sport.
For Tlang, the presence of ISL matches in Shillong is about more than just entertainment; it is a chance to inspire the next generation of footballers. He believes that the ISL‘s arrival will be a turning point for the state’s football scene, helping it grow and develop further. The excitement around the ISL will encourage young children to pursue the sport, with Tlang hoping that the league’s presence will help accelerate the development of football across Meghalaya and India.
Inspiring the Next Generation: Football’s Growth in Meghalaya
Tlang expressed his belief that ISL matches in Shillong would be an invaluable experience for young kids in the region. “For young kids, watching ISL matches in Shillong is incredibly important. When I was growing up, we didn’t have this exposure,” he said. Over the years, the grassroots football scene in Shillong and the Northeast has steadily improved, and the ISL’s arrival will further bolster this progress. Young footballers will have the chance to witness top-tier footballers in action, motivating them to improve their skills and dream big.
The influence of the ISL in Shillong will extend far beyond just the matches. It will lead to a broader acceptance and celebration of the sport, providing young footballers with more opportunities to excel. Tlang’s journey from Shillong Lajong to NEUFC serves as a perfect example of what can be achieved when players are provided with the right platform and exposure.
As Shillong prepares to host its first ISL match, the excitement and passion surrounding the event are palpable. With Mandar Tamhane and Redeem Tlang at the forefront of this transformation, there is no doubt that Shillong is well on its way to becoming the football capital of India. The support from both the Government of Meghalaya and local fans will continue to be key in nurturing the future of football in the state.
