Shillong, Aug 26: All eyes are on the underdog Shillong Lajong FC as they prepare to take on Indian Super League (ISL) side Northeast United FC in the first semifinal of the 133rd Durand Cup 2024 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong at 5:30 PM on Monday.
The Durand Cup, first hosted in 1888, is the oldest football tournament in Asia and the fifth oldest in the world.
This year, Shillong Lajong has been a force to be reckoned with, knocking out some of India’s top football clubs. Their campaign has seen them defeat Kolkata giants and last year’s runners-up East Bengal FC, as well as 2021 Durand Cup and ISL winner Goa FC.
The upcoming North East Derby is expected to be one of the most exciting and entertaining matches ever played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
With tickets selling out almost instantly, the stadium will be packed with tens of thousands of home supporters.
The intense atmosphere proved too much for East Bengal and the question now is whether Northeast United can handle the pressure of playing against the 12th man of Shillong Lajong FC.
There are also rumors of thousands of fans traveling to attend the match, though no official confirmation has been made. Speculation is rife that superstar and Northeast United owner John Abraham might make an appearance in Shillong.
If the rumors hold true, the atmosphere will be electric, with both home and away supporters creating a European-football like experience.
For former Shillong Lajong captain Redeem Talang, who now plays for Northeast United, this will be a particularly memorable match. He returns to face the club that made him the star he is today – adding another layer of emotion to the derby.
The winner of this semifinal will face either Bengaluru FC or Mohun Bagan Super Giants in the final. As the lone I-League team among these giants, Shillong Lajong has already proven themselves as the people’s champion, regardless of the outcome of Monda’s match.
