John Abraham: 'Want To Make Shillong's NEUFC Centre Of Excellence, India's Best'
NorthEast United Owner John Abraham praised Meghalaya government's support.
NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) began their Durand Cup 2025 campaign on a winning note, defeating the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM FA) team in their opening Group E match at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie picked up right where he left off last season, striking twice in the first half and adding another after the break to complete his hat-trick.
As the second home ground of NorthEast United FC, Shillong welcomed the team with unmatched enthusiasm and pride. Notably, NEUFC has played several matches across different tournaments like the Durand and ISL, here at the JN Stadium, underscoring the city's strong football culture and unwavering support for the club.
What Did John Abraham Say?
The stadium erupted in cheer as Bollywood Superstar and NEUFC owner John Abraham arrived to support the team. Speaking about his excitement on being in Shillong, he said, 'Very excited to be the back with the Durand Cup here. We are the defending champions i.e. the NEUFC. We hope to put on a good performance this year."
Praising the support of Hon'ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, he added, 'Missing my Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. But this is to all the people of Meghalaya, and to the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Vijay Kumar and everybody involved- A big thank you for all the support you have given us. A big thank you for the academy land that you have given us, where we want to build the NEUFC Centre of excellence. We want to make this academy the best sports academy in the country."
The Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the Indian Armed Forces, has been instrumental in bringing the Durand Cup, consecutively for the second time, to the state. With continued investment in infrastructure, grassroots programmes, and hosting of marquee tournaments, Meghalaya is fast emerging as India's football capital.
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