Shillong, Aug 1: NorthEast United FC will begin their Durand Cup 2025 title defence against the Malaysian Armed Forces at the JN Stadium here on Saturday. Kick-off will be at 7PM.
After an historic unbeaten run in the previous edition that earned them their first major silverware, the Highlanders are determined to defend their crown.
While this will be NorthEast United’s first outing of the tournament, the Malaysian Armed Forces have already played their opener, suffering a 6-0 defeat to Shillong Lajong.
On the eve of the match, Juan Pedro Benali, head coach of NorthEast United, said that the team is preparing hard for the opening fixture.
“The team has been working diligently over the past three weeks and we hope we’re well-prepared and focused for our opening match against the Malaysian Armed Forces,” Benali, who recently signed an extension until 2027, said before adding, “It’s the first final we have to play if we want to defend our title.”
A key feature of Benali’s side is the versatility and depth of the squad, with multiple players capable of playing in various roles.
Alaaeddine Ajaraie, last season’s ISL Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner, is capable of operating on either left flank or through the middle. He often rotates with Jithin MS, the 2024 Durand Cup Most Valuable Player, whose unpredictable movement between wings adds an edge to the attack.
At the back, Gurmeet Singh, Golden Glove winner in the previous edition, will guard the posts. In front of him, captain Michel Zabaco marshals a versatile backline that includes Asheer Akhtar, Tondonba Singh, Buanthanglun Samte, Robin Yadav, Dinesh Singh, Meghalaya hero Redeem Tlang and Bekey Oram, all of whom add depth to the backline.
Their opponents will be looking to bounce back from the heavy defeat to Lajong. Despite the result, the team remains focused and determined.
“This will be our second match of the tournament, and we are determined to improve. NorthEast United is a strong side with good attacking quality, but we are focused on sticking to our structure and playing with discipline,” said Masrizar bin Mizalan, assistant coach of the Malaysian Armed Forces FT.
