Shillong, May 10: Diamond Harbour FC almost have the Indian Football League 2025-26 title in the bag after Shillong Lajong FC drew 1-1 with Sreenidi Deccan FC at the latter’s home ground in Hyderabad this evening.
It started brilliantly for the hosts as David Castaneda Munoz scored in just the 9th minute with a volley from a difficult angle but Phrangki Buam levelled with a spot kick for Lajong in the 59th minute; this was his sixth goal of the season.
SLFC had the majority of the scoring opportunities in the second half but weren’t able to convert. Kamaljit Singh, the Sreenidi goalkeeper, had a lot to do with that.
If either team had lost today they would have been out of the race for the IFL title. A draw just about keeps them both in the hunt, though they are both 6 points adrift of Diamond Harbour, who have 28 points. DHFC needed just 1 point from either of their two remaining fixtures (one of which will be against Lajong) to take the title.
Lajong coach Birendra Thapa made four changes from the starting lineup against Chanmari FC eight days ago. Ranit Sarkar started in goal again in place of Siwel Rymbai. Also coming in were Gladdy Kharbuli, Everbrightson Mylliempdah and Figo Syndai in place of Ephraim Lalremtluanga, Abhay Gurung and Jakob Vanlalhimpuia.
SLFC’s next match will see them return to Shillong for their last home match of the season, which will be against Rajasthan United FC on 15th May.
Shillong Lajong squad today:
Ranit Sarkar (GK), Kitboklang Khyriem, Rudra Ved, Saveme Tariang, Kenstar Kharshong, Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Gladdy Kharbuli (sub Tremiki Lamurong 60′), Lamlallian (sub Maxderidoff Wahlang 88′), Figo Syndai (sub Ephraim Lalremtluanga 77′), Everbrightson Mylliempdah (sub Jakob Vanlalhimpuia 60′), Phrangki Buam
(Indian Football League photo)
