Guwahati: Northeast United FC addressed its first press meet after it won the prestigious 133rd Durand Cup tournament last year. Team CEO Mandar Tamhanne, Coach Juan Benali, Captain Miguel Zobaco Tome, goalkeeper Gurmeet Singh, and forward player Parthib Gogoi attended this meeting after a short practice session.
Addressing the gathering, the coach called on the supporters to continue their support for the home team. He mentioned that the team will continue to strive for excellence every day as he reiterated his mantra of ‘sabr’. On being asked about the final match of the 133rd Durand Cup against Mohun Bagan Super Giant, he said, “In the first half of the match, we played like any other team playing against Mohun Bagan. But in the second half, we played like Northeast United. And the results are in front of you.”
The coach also invited the supporters to come to the grounds in large numbers and support the team. He mentioned that such support will not only boost the morale of the home team but also help sustain the club. It must be noted that during the opening seasons of ISL, Guwahati used to get a full house in almost every match of the home team. With their first-ever major title, Northeast United is hopeful for the return of the same crowds to the stadium.
The CEO mentioned that the club is taking several initiatives to popularise the game among the youth of the region.
He mentioned the camps and academies run by NorthEast United FC in the northeastern states. On being questioned, he said that the organisers had found some technical limitations regarding the hosting of matches in Meghalaya. Adding that the state government is working towards removing these hurdles at the earliest. He also said Shillong could host multiple matches of ISL 2024-25, especially those hosted in the next year. And if not this season, Shillong will definitely host matches of the next season.
