The following is the product of a press release from the Durand Cup organisers and has only received minor edits from TSR
Shillong, Jul 30: On a cool Shillong evening, under the lights of the JN Stadium, the Durand Cup kicked off not just with goals but with emotion, pride and a moment that will be etched in local footballing history.
For the thousands of fans in the stands, it was about seeing their beloved Shillong Lajong FC return to the big stage and register a dominating win over a foreign side. For Phrangki Buam, it was something far more personal, a dream lived in real time.
The midfielder from Jaintia Hills, a crowd favourite and a dynamic attacking winger, was at the heart of Lajong’s emphatic 6–0 win over Malaysia’s Armed Forces football team, scoring twice and setting the tone for what could be a landmark campaign. Buam’s performance was electric, but it was the emotional resonance of his journey that captured the imagination of those watching.
“Personally, I’m very happy to wear the Shillong Lajong jersey and it’s a proud moment for me,” Buam said with pride. “I grew up watching Shillong Lajong playing in the I-League, so since then I had a dream to play for this club.”
This is Buam’s second consecutive Durand Cup appearance for Shillong Lajong. Nineteen of his 21 career goals in the top flight have come for them. He was a key part of the squad in the previous edition, when they reached the semifinals, losing to eventual champions NorthEast United FC.
Buam has already equalled his goal tally from the last edition, showcasing yet again his ability to perform on big occasions. He has started the 2025 campaign with even greater confidence and composure and his growth from last season is evident, both in his on-field leadership and his sharp attacking instincts.
After going around the country to Bengaluru and Goa as well as Kolkata, Buam seems to have finally found his calling back where it all started.
“When I was still a kid, I never imagined that I could play in a prestigious and historic tournament like the Durand Cup, especially to score at your own stadium, in front of your own supporters. That’s a wonderful feeling like no other.”
Buam’s rise mirrors the aspirations of many young footballers in Meghalaya, a region where football is deeply woven into daily life. Every school ground, every street corner, hums with the energy of the sport, and seeing one of their own deliver on the national stage, is a powerful inspiration.
“A tournament like the Durand Cup has inspired so many young local players to keep working and to chase their dreams, especially for the younger generation in a football-loving state like Meghalaya.”
What sets Phrangki Buam apart isn’t just his natural talent but the relentless effort he puts in to stay ahead of the game. His attacking style, marked by quick feet and fearless intent, is honed through discipline and extra hours on the training ground.
“I do extra training myself if I’m not training with the team. With the help of the coaching staff, I think that is helping me go another mile, become more sharp, fit and have the confidence to perform in every match.”
That focus and work ethic have turned Buam into a symbol of what’s possible for local players, someone younger footballers can look up to, not just for his skills but for the journey he represents.
“In a football-loving place like our state, I think it’s an honour and privilege to see young footballers in Meghalaya see me as their role model, and I hope more upcoming talents will come up in the future.”
For now, Buam’s focus remains on helping Shillong Lajong make the most of their home advantage and the momentum of this commanding start. His goals have not only lifted the team but also set the tone for what could be a memorable run.
From the village lanes to the grand stage of the Durand Cup, Phrangki’s journey is a powerful reminder of what local talent can achieve with belief, effort and a club that feels like family. As Lajong chase glory, Buam is not just playing for points, he’s playing for pride, for his people, and for every kid in Meghalaya dreaming of their own moment.
(Durand Cup media photo)
