Shillong Lajong FC Triumphs Over Rajasthan United FC in IFL Showdown

In a thrilling IFL Championship Phase match, Shillong Lajong FC defeated Rajasthan United FC 4-2, keeping their title aspirations alive. The match featured standout performances from players like Gladdy Nelcen Kharbuli and Phrangki Buam. Despite Rajasthan's early lead, Shillong's resilience shone through as they fought back to secure a vital win. This victory positions Shillong second in the standings, just behind Diamond Harbour FC. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match's key moments and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 15, 2026, 23:46 IST

Shillong Lajong FC Secures Crucial Victory

In a thrilling encounter at the SSA Stadium in Shillong, Shillong Lajong FC claimed a vital 4-2 victory against Rajasthan United FC during their Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 Championship Phase match on Friday. The goals for Shillong were scored by Gladdy Nelcen Kharbuli, Everbrightson Sana, Phrangki Buam, and Rudra Ved, while Rajasthan's Alan Thapa and Gerard Artigas found the net for their side.

Current Standings

Following this win, Shillong remains in second place with 25 points from 13 matches, trailing leaders Diamond Harbour FC by three points, who have a game in hand. Rajasthan sits in fourth place with 17 points.

Early Game Dynamics

Understanding the importance of a win, Shillong started the match with high energy, aiming to exploit the flanks against Rajasthan. Figo Syndai made several threatening crosses early on, while Damaitphang Lyngdoh had the first attempt for the hosts in the third minute, narrowly missing the target.

Shillong maintained a strong offensive presence initially, with Syndai and Buam testing Rajasthan's defense. However, Rajasthan began to find their footing around the 15-minute mark, with Artigas starting to create opportunities behind the defense, although he was effectively marked by captain Kenstar Kharshong.

Rajasthan Surprises with an Early Goal

Kharshong almost scored in the 15th minute with a long-range shot that hit the side-netting. Buam came close to scoring shortly after, hitting the woodwork with a powerful shot from Sana's assist. Against the run of play, Rajasthan took the lead in the 20th minute when Thapa capitalized on a defensive error, striking from outside the box to score his first goal of the tournament.

Shillong's Resilience

Despite trailing, Shillong dominated possession and had nine shots by the half-hour mark compared to Rajasthan's single attempt. The equalizer came in the 39th minute when Syndai delivered a low cross that Kharbuli converted from close range.

Just before halftime, Shillong took the lead with a goal from Sana, who scored after Kharshong recycled a corner that was poorly cleared by the Rajasthan goalkeeper.

Rajasthan Equalizes Again

Rajasthan nearly equalized early in the second half when Artigas delivered a low cross that Thapa failed to convert. Shillong pressed aggressively, but Rajasthan appeared more composed and began to control the game. Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when Artigas scored, lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper to level the score at 2-2.

Decisive Goals Seal the Win for Shillong

In the 74th minute, Shillong regained the lead when Kharshong was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty that Buam converted confidently. Five minutes later, Shillong extended their lead with a goal from Rudra, who finished from close range after a well-executed short corner.

Rajasthan nearly pulled one back in the 84th minute, but a crucial goal-line clearance by Saveme Tariang kept Shillong's two-goal cushion intact. Despite Rajasthan's late efforts, Shillong managed to control the final minutes, securing a significant victory in their title chase.