Diamond Harbour FC Triumphs Over Shillong Lajong FC in Thrilling Encounter
Match Overview
In a gripping contest at the SSA Stadium in Shillong, Luka Majcen's two goals propelled Diamond Harbour FC to a 2-1 victory against Shillong Lajong FC during Match 15 of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 season on Saturday.
This victory allowed Diamond Harbour to ascend to the second position in the league standings with six points, trailing Sreenidi Deccan only on goal difference. Meanwhile, Shillong Lajong slipped to fifth place, accumulating four points from three matches.
Team Line-ups
Shillong Lajong's head coach, Birendra Thapa, maintained consistency by fielding the same starting eleven for the second consecutive match. In contrast, Kibu Vicuna made a single adjustment to his lineup, introducing Bryce Miranda in place of Halicharan Narzary on the left wing.
First Half Highlights: Majcen's Early Goals
The match commenced with Diamond Harbour taking the lead just two minutes in. Luka Majcen received the ball in the box and assisted Antonio Moyano, whose shot was saved by goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai. The rebound fell perfectly for Majcen, who easily converted to score.
Majcen extended the lead with another precise finish at the near post. After a dispossession by Shillong Lajong, Jobby Justin was released down the right flank by Hugo Diaz, delivering a low cross that Majcen finished with finesse.
Despite the early setback, Shillong Lajong maintained their high-intensity approach, pressing effectively and utilizing their wing-backs to challenge the Diamond Harbour defense.
The home team nearly reduced the deficit when Everbrightson Sana's header was thwarted by a combination of goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh's fingertips and the crossbar. Saveme Tariang's cross found Sana, who powered a header that was ultimately denied.
With their wing-backs pushing forward, Shillong Lajong left gaps for counter-attacks. Diamond Harbour almost scored a third goal just before halftime, but Luka Majcen's shot was saved, and Bryce Miranda's follow-up attempt hit the crossbar.
Second Half Action: Shillong Lajong Fights Back
Nine minutes into the second half, Shillong Lajong narrowed the gap with a brilliant counter-attack. After clearing a long throw, Everbrightson Sana quickly passed to Gladdy Kharbuli, who skillfully finished past Dheeraj Singh.
From that moment, Shillong Lajong dominated possession, with Lamlallian Vaiphei excelling in midfield, orchestrating play and delivering threatening set-pieces.
Everbrightson Sana nearly equalized after an hour, challenging Dheeraj for a high ball that was destined for the net until Melroy Assisi cleared it off the line.
Shortly after, Sana missed a golden opportunity to level the score. Following a slick sequence of passes, Damaitphang Lyngdoh set up Sana, but his sliding shot went over the bar, disappointing the home crowd.
Final Moments: Diamond Harbour Holds On
As the match progressed, Diamond Harbour, who had been under pressure for much of the second half, intensified their attacking efforts. Substitute Sunday Afolabi struck the crossbar with a powerful long-range shot, while Siwel Rymbai made a crucial save against Moyano in stoppage time.
Ultimately, Diamond Harbour managed to preserve their one-goal advantage, securing their second consecutive victory of the season.