Shillong, Feb 28: NorthEast United FC finished on top of the Meghalaya Zone of the U-21 Reliance Foundation Development League 2024-25, the matches of which took place at the Wahiajer Multipurpose Sports Complex.
NEUFC and the other two sides in the Top 3 – Classic FA of Manipur and Jamshedpur FC – have qualified for the RFDL national group stage.
The Meghalaya Zone wrapped up yesterday when Jamshedpur defeating Shillong Lajong FC 4-1. Earlier the same day Classic FA triumphed over NorthEast United 3-0.
Aizawl FC finished four and the Mizoram Youth Football Foundation fifth, with Lajong trailing at the back.
Now in its fourth season, the RFDL aims to be a platform for the top U-21 players to demonstrate their talent in a competitive environment. The tournament comprises teams across nine regions in the country from the Indian Super League, I-League and I-League 2, independent academies and clubs nominated by state football associations.
In an RFDL press release today, NorthEast United senior team player Redeem Tlang described the tournament as a transformative experience for budding youngsters climbing the ladders of Indian football.
The 30-year-old said that tournaments like the RFDL were missing during the time he was coming through the ranks in Meghalaya and he is pleased that the current batch of youngsters have that chance to optimise their potential.
“It’s great to see young players from Meghalaya getting recognition and valuable game time through the Reliance Foundation Development League. Such competitions didn’t exist when I was growing up and it’s wonderful that kids today have these opportunities. It allows them to experience and enjoy the game from a young age. The RFDL gives them a platform to show their skills at a competitive stage and grow as footballers,” Redeem was quoted as saying.
With more than 100 ISL matches under his belt, Redeem was asked to share some words of advice to players turning up in the current RFDL season. He encouraged them to never back down from difficult circumstances and always have the valour to spark a comeback. “Football is a rollercoaster ride; there will always be ups and downs. What matters is how you get back up and keep pushing. I am where I am today because I never backed down,” he said.
“Growing up in Shillong, we didn’t have proper football academies. Opportunities were limited but the love for the game kept us going. I used to sneak out on weekends just to attend football camps organised by Meghalaya’s veteran players. Those sessions were priceless, as they shaped my game in ways I can’t describe,” Redeem concluded.
(RFDL photo of the U-21 NorthEast United team)
