Shillong Lajong Advances in Durand Cup

In a crucial Durand Cup group stage match, Shillong Lajong drew 1-1 with FC Goa, securing a place in the knockout stage due to superior goal difference. Marcos Rudwere Silva opened the scoring for Lajong in the 30th minute, but FC Goa's Devendra Murgaokar equalized just three minutes later, marking his eighth goal in the tournament and making him the club's all-time top scorer in the Durand Cup. Despite dominating possession with 62% and creating several chances, FC Goa was unable to find a winning goal, resulting in their elimination from the tournament. Both teams ended the group stage with seven points, but Lajong advanced thanks to a better goal difference. FC Goa, led by head coach Israil Gurung, now shifts focus to upcoming competitions, including the Goa Professional League and the Reliance Foundation Development League. The match showcased contrasting styles, with Lajong capitalizing on set-pieces while Goa struggled to convert their possession into clear chances.