Shillong, known as the ‘Scotland of the East,’ will host the Indian football team for their match against Bangladesh in March.
Recently, the Indian team played an international friendly against the Maldives at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, where they ended their 489-day winless streak with a 3-0 victory. This match was a historic moment for Meghalaya’s capital, which officially made its mark on the international football map on March 19, 2025. It was also the first win for head coach Manolo Márquez after five matches in charge.
Shillong has already proven its passion for football, hosting the 133rd Durand Cup and leaving a strong impression. The energetic home crowd witnessed Shillong Lajong FC stun ISL team East Bengal FC in the quarterfinals, reaching the semifinals for the first time.
However, NorthEast United FC, under coach Juan Pedro Benali, ended Lajong’s run with a dominant 3-0 win. Despite the loss, the tournament highlighted Meghalaya’s deep football culture and its growing potential in Indian football.
With the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh scheduled for March 25, let’s explore how hosting two international matches in Shillong can benefit the “Scotland of the East.”
Shillong Upgrades Sports Facilities with Major Investments
The state government is investing heavily in improving sports facilities. In March, Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, announced plans to build a ₹732 crore football complex in Mawkhanu, East Khasi Hills District.
The new stadium is expected to accommodate nearly 40,000 football fans, with construction likely to begin next financial year. As Meghalaya prepares to host the 2027 National Games, the government has allocated around ₹1,900 crore to enhance sports infrastructure across the state.
The Chief Minister also outlined plans to install 25 artificial turfs and set up 140 grassroots centers. Additionally, he promised financial support for local football teams to nurture young talent.
Indian Football found a home in Shillong
The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong has seen major upgrades over the last three years. In 2023, the Chief Minister announced that the stadium was being rebuilt to meet FIFA standards for hosting international matches, with a planned seating capacity of 30,000.
After the renovation, the stadium hosted the Durand Cup, and NorthEast United FC declared it their second home ground. The club played their last three group-stage matches here against Bengaluru FC, Mumbai City FC, and East Bengal FC. Additionally, the ISL playoffs are set to take place at this venue, and if NorthEast United FC reaches the semifinals, Shillong could host that match too.
These improvements will attract more high-profile tournaments to the state, bringing more international football matches to Shillong in the future.
Exposure to the new generation
Shillong has a strong football culture and has produced talented players like Aiborlang Khongjee and Eugeneson Lyngdoh. The success of clubs like Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC has played a big role in developing football in the state.
Founded in 1982, Shillong Lajong FC proves that proper investment can boost the popularity of football, even in remote areas. Many well-known players, including Naorem Mahesh Singh, Chinglesana Singh, and Vishal Kaith, started their careers at the club.
Lajong also became the first Indian football club to receive foreign direct investment (FDI). Dubai-based Anglian Holdings acquired a 25% stake in the club, which now competes in the I-League’s second division. The club continues to nurture young talent and provide them with opportunities.
With recent developments and the presence of top footballers like Sunil Chhetri, Sandesh Jhingan, Vishal Kaith, and Liston Colaco, young players will feel more inspired. Watching these stars in action will encourage them to take football more seriously and pursue it professionally.
