Shillong Lajong Dominates Malaysian Armed Forces 6-0 in Durand Cup

The opening match of the 134th Durand Cup saw Shillong Lajong deliver an impressive performance, defeating the Malaysian Armed Forces 6-0 on Saturday. The match took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the capital city of Meghalaya. Lajong’s dominating victory marked a strong start to their Group E campaign in the tournament.

Under the guidance of coach Birendra Thapa, Lajong fielded a youthful lineup against their Malaysian opponents. The home team quickly established their dominance, with Everbrightson Sana and Phrangki Buam each scoring two goals. Substitutes Treimiki Lamurong and Deibormame Tongper contributed to the scoreline, each adding a goal late in the match.

Lajong employed a 4-3-3 formation and took control early in the game. Sana opened the scoring in the 12th minute, heading in a well-placed cross from Rudra Ved following a clever free-kick routine initiated by Sheen Stevenson. Despite a promising volley from Malaysia’s Mohamad Syamim Yusoff that was expertly punched away by goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai, the Malaysian side struggled to break through the resolute Lajong defense, anchored by skipper Kenstar Kharshong and Saveme Tariang.

As the second half commenced, Lajong returned with renewed energy. Buam scored twice within the first five minutes, first converting a free-kick from Stevenson in the 47th minute and then finishing calmly to a through ball just two minutes later. The fourth goal arrived in the 66th minute as Sana completed his brace, turning sharply in the box to slot the ball past the Malaysian goalkeeper.

Lajong’s offensive display did not cease there. In the 73rd minute, substitute Lamurong curled a stunning shot from the edge of the box, further extending the lead. Just before the final whistle, Tongper wrapped up the match with a composed finish, rounding off a truly dominant performance by the home side.

This decisive victory not only boosts Shillong Lajong’s confidence but also sets a high standard for their upcoming matches in the tournament. The team will look to build on this success as they continue their campaign in the Durand Cup.