The following is the product of a press release from the Durand Cup organisers and has only received minor edits from TSR
Shillong, Aug 18: The JN Stadium was alive with energy on Saturday evening. In the middle of that roar, it was a moment of instinct, almost accidental, that changed everything for Shillong Lajong. Damaitphang Lyngdoh swung his foot, looking to deliver a cross but, instead, the ball found its way past the goalkeeper and into the net.
What could have been just another delivery into the box turned into the spark that ignited Lajong’s comeback and eventual victory against Indian Navy in the first quarterfinal of the Durand Cup 2025. For the midfielder, it was a surreal experience. “Honestly, I went for a cross but somehow it ended up going in,” Damait said afterwards, his smile still betraying disbelief. “I was just happy we got an equaliser to gain confidence and momentum to win the game.”
Polo Ground has seen its fair share of iconic goals but for the young local star this one carried a special weight. To score in front of friends, family and a passionate home crowd made it all the more meaningful. “It’s very special,” he said. “The support from our fans at Polo Ground always pushes us forward. Scoring in front of them felt amazing but the most important thing is that we made them proud as a team.”
Lajong’s journey into the semifinals of the 134th Durand Cup is no small feat. For a side carrying the pride of Meghalaya on its shoulders, every step in the tournament is about more than just results. Damait’s goal, which turned the tide of the game, has become a symbol of that resilience. “It’s a big boost for all of us,” he explained. “Everyone has been working really hard and this result shows the strength of the whole squad. It gives us extra confidence going into the semifinal.”
For him personally, the moment was not just about the scoreboard. It was about etching his contribution into the history of a club that has long been a beacon of football in the North East. “To contribute to the club’s history in such a big tournament is an honour,” he reflected. “I hope we can achieve even more together.”
Lajong’s semifinal will be against regional foes NorthEast United on Tuesday at the JN Stadium. Kick-off will be at 7PM.
(Durand Cup media file photo)
