SHILLONG: In a major development for football enthusiasts, the Durand Cup Organising Committee has announced that the highly anticipated North East Derby between Northeast United FC and Shillong Lajong FC will now take place at JN Stadium in Shillong, Meghalaya.
The match, initially scheduled for Sunday, has been rescheduled to Monday (August 26) at 5:30 PM.
The decision follows intense quarterfinal performances by both teams, which have ignited immense enthusiasm among their fans.
According to the Organising Committee, the overwhelming support from the teams’ fan bases and the historic significance of the JN Stadium as a bastion of Northeast football were key factors in the relocation.
This change aims to allow local supporters to witness the semifinal in a setting that deeply resonates with the region’s rich football culture.
The Committee expressed confidence that this move will not only elevate the match’s atmosphere but also provide the teams with the passionate support they deserve as they vie for a spot in the final.
However, it was clarified that should Shillong Lajong FC emerge victorious, the final will still be held in Kolkata, as previously planned.