Shillong February 18: Shillong is set to host two high-profile international football matches in March, with the Government of Meghalaya and the Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) intensifying preparations behind the scenes.
The Indian senior men’s team will face Maldives in a FIFA friendly on March 19, followed by a crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh on March 25 at the JN Stadium.
In a key development, Indian team Assistant Coach Mahesh Gawali visited Shillong today to inspect the JN Stadium and the practice ground at North-Eastern Hill University. Expressing his approval, Gawali hailed the renovated JN Stadium as “one of the best football grounds” in the country, acknowledging its high-quality pitch, upgraded stands, and improved changing rooms.
While the JN Stadium is ready to host international fixtures, work is ongoing to enhance the practice ground. During his visit, Gawali, alongside MFA Vice-President Cliff Nongrum, explored options such as installing portable changing rooms to facilitate better training conditions. Gawali also emphasized the importance of establishing a practice ground with permanent facilities, which, he believes, would make Shillong a prime destination for international football events.
India is placed in Group C of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers final round, alongside Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangladesh. The teams will play in a home-and-away round-robin format until March 2026, with the group winners earning a spot in the prestigious tournament.
With Shillong’s football infrastructure receiving high praise, the upcoming matches are expected to boost the city’s profile as a leading football hub in India.
