After successfully hosting its first-ever ISL game, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is set to stage another marquee football fixture. According to sources, the city has received the green light from the AFC to host the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers match between India and Bangladesh on March 25, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, commonly known as Polo Ground.
On January 11, the AIFF Head of Competitions visited Shillong for a ground inspection. Meghalaya Football Association Secretary, Sunesh Syiem has confirmed to RevSportz that they have secured clearance to host the first-ever international fixture at the venue, with an official announcement expected soon.
According to Sunesh, the Indian football team is expected to arrive in Shillong by March 13, following the completion of the ISL league stage. The Blue Tigers will hold an extended training camp in Shillong ahead of their crucial clash against neighbours Bangladesh. Additionally, India will play a friendly against the Maldives to fine-tune their preparations before the opening fixture of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.
The friendly match between India and the Maldives will also take place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. As per the MFA Secretary, accommodation for both teams and AIFF officials has been nearly finalized, with three five-star hotels arranged for their stay.
Football is deeply ingrained in Shillong’s culture, and the city has already hosted its first-ever ISL clash between NorthEast United and Mumbai City FC. NorthEast United will also play against Bengaluru FC and East Bengal at the same venue. However, the March 25 encounter will mark the Indian national team’s first international appearance in Shillong, making it a historic spectacle for local football enthusiasts.
Adding to Shillong’s growing prominence as a sports and entertainment hub, the city will also welcome English singer Ed Sheeran for a concert on February 12, at the same football stadium where ISL and international matches will be played. Organisers have assured that pitch protectors will be used to prevent any damage to the playing surface.
After failing to qualify directly for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia, India must now top their group in the qualifiers to secure a spot in the continental tournament. Meanwhile, their opening-match opponents, Bangladesh, will pose a formidable challenge, having strengthened their squad with the addition of former Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury. Currently playing for Sheffield United, Hamza recently switched his international allegiance to represent Bangladesh.
With all these factors in play, Shillong—a city passionate about football—is set to witness a high-voltage clash on March 25.
Also Read: Shillong gears up to host first-ever ISL match
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