Shillong, Apr 26: Shillong Lajong FC and Dempo SC played out a 0-0 draw in their Championship Round match in the Indian Football League 2025-26 at the SSA Stadium here this evening.
Dempo had defeated Lajong in Stage 1 and SLFC had been hoping to get some revenge.
The draw means Lajong stay in second place but their title hopes have shrunk. Leaders Diamond Harbour, who won 2-0 against Chanmari FC yesterday, now have a 7-point lead with just four games to go. All the teams carried their Stage 1 points forward into the Championship Round.
Lajong coach Birendra Thapa made no change to the starting lineup from the win against Aizawl FC at the end of Stage 1.
Phrangki Buam had a fantastic go in the 35th minute but his on-target shot was put out by Dempo goalkeeper Ashish Sibi. Just before half time Damaitphang Lyngdoh came even closer but his excellent right-footer was denied not by the keeper but by the upright.
The second half saw Lajong the more attacking still but they were unable to find the mark on most occasions. The closest they came was in stoppage time when Abelson Jachi was blocked by the goalie and Kenstar Kharshong kissed the woodwork with the rebound.
Lajong will next face Chanmari FC in a North East derby on 2nd May at 6:30PM here.
Shillong Lajong squad today:
Ranit Sarkar (GK), Kitboklang Khyriem, Rudra Ved, Saveme Tariang, Ephraim Lalremtluanga (sub Abhay Gurung 78’), Kenstar Kharshong, Damaitphang Lyngdoh, Gladdy Kharbuli (sub Abelson Jachi 78’), Lamlallian, Everbrightson Mylliempdah (sub Jakob Vanlalhimpuia 88’), Phrangki Buam (sub Tremiki Lamurong 88’)
(Indian Football League photo)
