Diamond Harbour FC Triumphs Over Shillong Lajong FC in Indian Football League Clash

Match Overview

In a thrilling encounter at the SSA Stadium in Shillong, Diamond Harbour FC secured a 2-1 victory against Shillong Lajong FC on March 15, 2025, thanks to Luka Majcen's impressive double. This match marked the 15th fixture of the Star Cement Indian Football League 2025-26 season.

League Standings Update

Following this win, Diamond Harbour ascended 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, opted to maintain the same starting lineup for the second consecutive match. In contrast, Kibu Vicuna made one adjustment to his squad, introducing Bryce Miranda in place of Halicharan Narzary on the left wing.

First Half Highlights

Diamond Harbour struck early, scoring in the second minute. Luka Majcen received the ball in the box and set up Antonio Moyano, whose shot was saved by goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai. The rebound fell perfectly for Majcen, who easily found the net.

Majcen doubled the lead shortly after with a precise finish at the near post. Jobby Justin, after a dispossession by Shillong Lajong, was released down the right flank by Hugo Diaz. Justin delivered a low cross that Majcen converted effortlessly.

Despite being behind, Shillong Lajong maintained their aggressive style, pressing high and utilizing their wingers effectively to challenge the Diamond Harbour defense.

Everbrightson Sana nearly reduced the deficit with a header, but Dheeraj Singh's fingertips and the crossbar thwarted his effort. A cross from Saveme Tariang found Sana, who rose to head the ball, only to be denied.

Diamond Harbour almost added a third goal before halftime, with Majcen's shot being saved, and Miranda's follow-up attempt hitting the crossbar.

Second Half Action

After the break, Shillong Lajong executed a brilliant counter-attack, halving the deficit nine minutes in. A long throw was cleared, and Sana quickly set up Gladdy Kharbuli, who finished skillfully past Dheeraj Singh.

From that moment, Shillong Lajong dominated possession, with Lamlallian Vaiphei shining in midfield, orchestrating play and delivering threatening set-pieces.

Sana came close to scoring again, challenging Dheeraj for a high ball that was destined for the net but was cleared off the line by Melroy Assisi.

Shortly after, Sana missed a golden chance to equalize, sending a sliding effort over the bar after a well-executed team play.

As the match progressed, Diamond Harbour intensified their offensive efforts. Substitute Sunday Afolabi struck the crossbar with a powerful long-range shot, and Siwel Rymbai made a crucial save against Moyano in stoppage time.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Diamond Harbour FC held onto their narrow lead, marking their second consecutive victory of the season.