Benali Flags Durand Cup Tournament In July & August Can Torment The Players Psychology.

Guwahati; May 2026: Juan Pedro Benali, Head Coach of the North East United Football Club (NEUFC) has questioned the timing of the Durand Cup, saying playing matches in extreme heat and humidity during July and August could endanger player’s health.

The recently concluded Indian Super League season proved difficult for several clubs, with reports of delayed salaries and a curtailed schedule of just 13 matches per team. North East United ended their campaign with a 2-0 win over Mohammedan Sporting Club (Kolkata), and finished 09th in the table with 16 points.

Looking ahead to next season, which is likely to begin with the Durand Cup, Benali raised concerns over the tournament schedule. The Durand Cup, established in 1888, is Asia’s oldest football tournament and the second-oldest in the world. North East United have won the competition in the last two seasons under Benali’s mentorship. “That is why I feel starting the Durand Cup very early is not right. Mentally, I do not think the teams are ready. Especially in July and August, when the weather is extremely hot. Playing games at 14:00 hours or 15:00 hours in the afternoon is dangerous”.

With 80% – 85% humidity and temperatures of 340C – 350C, it is very bad for the player’s health, the 57 years old tactician said after the team’s final ISL match. “I want to say clearly that I love the Durand Cup. I love the people who organise it. They are fantastic and very good friends of mine. They always treat us wonderfully. But we are professionals and athletes, and we need caution”.

The Spaniard described the Durand Cup as one of the best football tournaments in the world. “It is the second-oldest football tournament and it is an honour to participate again. The club would love to go as far as possible, while also taking care of the players’ health”, said Benali who has coaching experience in Europe, Asia and Africa. Benali also urged all stakeholders in Indian football to work together after a troubled season in which the ISL started late following uncertainty over the agreement between the All India Football Federation and Football Sports Development Limited. “We need to forget this season first. That is the truth. We need to put things right. And when I say ‘we’, I am talking about Indian football as a whole, not just North East United”, he said.

“We need clarity. We should not be selfish. I am talking about everyone: myself, journalists, fans, players, clubs, owners, AIFF, broadcasters, everybody. We need to stay together in this difficult moment. Let us learn from our mistakes and from other countries. India is a giant country with everything: economy, medicine, education, history and culture. We need to learn from ourselves and put things together”.

The Highlanders faced several challenges during the campaign, including the departure (on loan) of key players such as Alaaeddine Ajaraie, who played a major role for the side last season. Despite the setbacks, Benali said he would remember the season for the commitment shown by his players. “There were a lot of good points and some fewer good ones, but I will remember the player’s loyalty and honour. Even when the results did not go our way, they gave absolutely everything. They kept their heads up, stayed positive and suffered a lot while trying to do their best”, he said.

While reiterating further, Benali said, “They know they are much better than what they have shown at times. But in the end, I am happy, really happy, and proud to be part of the Highlanders”. Benali also explained his animated celebration after Dinesh Singh scored North East United’s second goal against Mohammedan SC. The coach removed his shirt while celebrating on the sidelines. “It was a promise I made to Dinesh that if he scored, I would do it. A man honours his word. I know it should not be like that, but well, it’s a game. It was the last game and it was special”, Benali said.

Team Maverick.