In a thrilling Durand Cup 2025 group stage encounter held in Guwahati, Shillong Lajong FC delivered a commanding 3-1 victory over arch-rivals Rangdajied United FC, continuing their impressive run in the competition. The North East derby lived up to expectations as intense midfield battles, strategic pressing, and clinical finishing defined the clash. Lajong’s victory not only strengthened their position in the group but also reaffirmed their growing stature in national football circuits.
This highly anticipated face-off between the two leading clubs from Meghalaya drew large attendance, vocal fan support, and a gripping storyline — with local pride, Durand legacy aspirations, and young talent all on display. The result puts Shillong Lajong in a strong position to qualify for the quarterfinal stage of the oldest football tournament in Asia.
Match Summary: Shillong Lajong 3 – 1 Rangdajied United
| Team | Goals Scored | Goal Scorers (Minutes) | Possession % | Shots on Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shillong Lajong FC | 3 | Kynsai Nongbri (22’), Pynskhem Suting (41’), Donbok Wahlang (74’) | 56% | 7 |
| Rangdajied United FC | 1 | Aiban Dkhar (65’) | 44% | 4 |
First Half: Early Dominance by Lajong Sets the Tone
Shillong Lajong started aggressively, pressing Rangdajied’s backline and maintaining high possession in midfield. The pressure paid off in the 22nd minute when Kynsai Nongbri latched onto a through ball from Wanbor Nongrum and slotted home the opener with a low shot past the Rangdajied keeper.
The second goal came shortly before halftime. In the 41st minute, a well-timed cross from Donbok Wahlang found Pynskhem Suting, who made no mistake in doubling Lajong’s lead. Rangdajied struggled to contain Lajong’s attacking trio, with their midfield overwhelmed and defensive coordination falling short.
Second Half: Rangdajied Fights Back But Lajong Closes It Out
After the break, Rangdajied made tactical adjustments, bringing in fresh legs and shifting to a more attacking 4-3-3 formation. Their efforts bore fruit in the 65th minute when Aiban Dkhar scored a header off a corner, sparking hopes of a comeback.
However, Shillong Lajong quickly responded in the 74th minute with a swift counterattack that saw Donbok Wahlang curling in a brilliant third goal, effectively sealing the result.
Lajong displayed excellent game management in the final 15 minutes, holding possession, frustrating Rangdajied with disciplined pressing, and denying any clear goal-scoring opportunities.
Player Performances: Standout Contributions
| Player Name | Club | Position | Key Contribution | Match Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kynsai Nongbri | Shillong Lajong FC | Forward | Opened the scoring with composed finish | 8.5 |
| Donbok Wahlang | Shillong Lajong FC | Midfielder | 1 Goal, 1 Assist, 4 chances created | 9.0 |
| Pynskhem Suting | Shillong Lajong FC | Striker | Scored second goal, high pressing efficiency | 8.0 |
| Aiban Dkhar | Rangdajied United | Defender | Scored Rangdajied’s only goal | 7.5 |
| Wanbor Nongrum | Shillong Lajong FC | Midfielder | Registered assist, dictated midfield tempo | 8.0 |
Tactical Analysis: Lajong’s Press and Fluid Attack the Key
Shillong Lajong coach Banshan Nongrum deployed a dynamic 4-2-3-1 system with an emphasis on quick transitions and flank overloads. The midfield double pivot of Wanbor Nongrum and Sylla Suting effectively neutralized Rangdajied’s playmakers and enabled sharp forward movement.
Key tactical elements:
- High pressing in central third, forcing turnovers
- Quick switches of play to exploit Rangdajied’s full-backs
- Compact midfield line, limiting space for opposition creators
Rangdajied, on the other hand, started with a 4-4-2 but failed to gain width or control. Their lone striker was often isolated, and their defensive line was caught off position multiple times during counterattacks.
Durand Cup Group Standings (As of July 30, 2025)
| Group D Team | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals For | Goals Against | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shillong Lajong FC | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 6 |
| Indian Air Force FC | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Rangdajied United FC | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| Assam Rifles FC | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 1 |
Shillong Lajong are now clear favorites to top Group D, while Rangdajied face a must-win situation in their final group game to stand any chance of progressing.
What This Win Means for Shillong Lajong
This victory not only boosts Shillong Lajong’s confidence but also places them in prime position to qualify for the Durand Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2018. With a balanced squad of youth and experience, Lajong is emerging as one of the dark horses of the tournament.
Club management has focused on developing local talent, with over 60% of the squad comprising homegrown players. Their successful strategy reflects growing football depth in Meghalaya and highlights the region’s grassroots football infrastructure and scouting systems.
Post-Match Reactions
Shillong Lajong Coach Banshan Nongrum:
“We played our game and executed the plan perfectly. This team has belief, and the support from the fans today made a big difference.”
Rangdajied United Captain Aibuit Dkhar:
“We didn’t stick to our plan in the first half, and Lajong punished us. We must regroup quickly.”
Upcoming Fixtures in Group D
| Date | Fixture | Venue | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 2 | Rangdajied United vs Assam Rifles FC | Guwahati Stadium | 5:00 PM |
| Aug 3 | Shillong Lajong FC vs Indian Air Force FC | Guwahati Stadium | 7:30 PM |
If Lajong win their final game, they’ll head into the knockout phase unbeaten, making a strong case as contenders in this year’s Durand Cup.
Lajong’s Durand Cup Record (Last 5 Appearances)
| Year | Stage Reached | Coach | Notable Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Group Stage | Bobby Nongbet | Drew 1-1 with Delhi FC |
| 2023 | Group Stage | Banshan Nongrum | Beat Army Red 2-0 |
| 2019 | Did Not Qualify | — | — |
| 2018 | Quarterfinal | Alison Kharkongor | Lost 0-1 to Gokulam Kerala |
| 2017 | Group Stage | Thangboi Singto | Beat Pune City 2-1 |
Their current form suggests a resurgent Shillong Lajong, blending tactical maturity with regional pride.
Why This Match Matters Beyond the Scoreline
- Revives one of Northeast’s oldest rivalries
- Showcases the rise of regional clubs on national platforms
- Highlights the depth of talent in local academies
- Increases Durand Cup’s competitive edge and viewership
With the ISL and I-League on a break, tournaments like the Durand Cup offer crucial game time and scouting visibility for Indian footballers.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on match events, official statistics, and post-match commentary. Final results, lineups, and related details are subject to updates and confirmation from the organizers. This article is intended for informational and editorial purposes only.
