Football
To play an ISL game there will be lovely: Chhangte on ISL's debut in northeast
Shillong will host three NorthEast United home matches, first against Mumbai City FC, followed by Bengaluru FC and East Bengal FC.

MCFC captain Chhangte hit the woodwork twice in the match against Odisha FC. (Photo Credit: ISL)
Mumbai City FC skipper Lallianzuala Chhangte is all set and geared up to feature in the Indian Super League (ISL)’s debut in Meghalaya with NorthEast United FC hosting the Islanders at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on February 7.
The 27-year-old is thrilled with the prospect of the Highlanders playing their final three home league games of the season in Shillong, as Bengaluru FC and East Bengal FC are set to visit them on February 21 and March 8 respectively.
Expressing his thoughts, Chhangte said, “Shillong is a beautiful place and to play an ISL game there will be lovely. I hope that the fans turn up in big numbers, not just the NorthEast United FC fans, but also the supporters of Mumbai City FC."
"I am positive about the impact that the matches taking place there will have on the footballing culture of Meghalaya. It gives the people there a never-seen opportunity to experience an ISL game live. I hope we put up a good match for them and come back victorious,” he added.
Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky echoed similar feelings as Chhangte, expressing his excitement towards playing in different conditions.
“Everyone told me it's a very nice place with very nice people. So I am looking forward to being there and seeing a part of India I have not seen yet. I am looking forward to playing away in different, much cooler conditions, and also playing good football and trying to win,” Kratky said.
With the playoffs nearing, Mumbai City FC are presently placed in the sixth spot having 28 points from 18 matches.
With Odisha FC (25), Kerala Blasters FC (24), and Punjab FC (23) following them closely in the standings, the race to finish in the top six looks likely to go right down the wire.
The Islanders will, however, have to first fend off competition from NorthEast United FC for that, who are fourth in the standings with 29 points from 19 games.
Unbeaten in their last eight games, the Highlanders will be eager to carry forward this impeccable form to their new home in Shillong too.