We are here to reach the final, says Juan Pedro Benali ahead of Durand Cup semis

Juan Pedro Benali expects the high-flying Highlanders to go all the way.

In a historic Northeast derby, NorthEast United FC, the only Indian Super League (ISL) team from the region, is set to face I-League side Shillong Lajong FC in the semi-final of the 133rd Durand Cup on 26th August 2024, from 5:30 PM onwards.

NorthEast United FC has reached the semi-final for the second consecutive time, having lost to East Bengal FC in a penalty shootout last year. On the other hand, Shillong Lajong FC ended their campaign in the group stage in last year’s edition.

“We’re Here to Reach the Final, Not for a Holiday”

In a pre-match press conference, NorthEast United FC head coach, Juan Pedro Benali, shared his thoughts about the match. He said, “We’re really happy to be in Shillong. You know, we feel we are at home, even though we’re playing against Shillong Lajong FC. We’ve come here many times to watch games, and we love the city, we love the area.

“Redeem is from here, and he can tell you we are very close and proud that two teams from the Northeast are playing in the semi-final of such a prestigious tournament. It will be very exciting for the fans to watch tomorrow.”

“As any coach would say, we’re not here for a holiday, we’re not here to just see Shillong. We came to play a game and to try to reach the final. That’s our aim, that’s our objective, and that’s it—with all due respect to Shillong Lajong, of course,” Juan Pedro Benali replied when asked about his expectations for the semi-final.

Expecting a full stadium

Talking about Shillong Lajong FC, Juan Pedro Benali mentioned that both teams have faced each other four to five times, including in friendly matches. “We played the Super Cup, and now Shillong Lajong FC has a new coach, a new mentality. They are a team that runs a lot, a team that is very well organized. They know how they want to play and have a clear idea of what they want. We’ve seen all their games so far, and it’s totally clear.”

Shillong Lajong FC will play at their home ground, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, in front of more than twenty-five thousand spectators, who will be cheering loudly for the home team.

Commenting on this, Juan Pedro Benali said he expects a full stadium tomorrow. He added, “We love it. We want a full stadium. You know, we are professionals. On the field, it’s just 11 players and the referees. Nothing more—maybe 10 sometimes if there’s a red card or something. The fans don’t play on the field. We want the noise. Sometimes it’s very motivating, and sometimes it can be a challenge for the home team if things aren’t going well. It depends on the situation—it can create more pressure.”

“Since it’s a Northeast derby, you might see equal support for both teams. Some people might have divided loyalties—hearts split between Shillong and NorthEast. But we are all brothers, and we hope the best team makes it to the final. We will aim to play the best football.”

Great feeling to be back: Redeem Tlang

Meghalaya local boy, Redeem Tlang, who was also present at the pre-match press conference, shared his views. “It’s a privilege for me to come back home after five years since I last played for Shillong Lajong in this stadium. Tomorrow, it will be my first time playing against them, so it’s a great feeling to be back. I hope you all enjoy a good match.”

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