Shillong Lajong FC Clinches Second Place in IFL 2025-26 with Dominant Win
Thrilling Conclusion to IFL 2025-26 Season
The Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 season concluded dramatically as Shillong Lajong FC secured the runner-up position by defeating the champions, Diamond Harbour FC, with a commanding 3-0 scoreline at Kalyani Stadium on Saturday.
Shillong Lajong took a two-goal lead into halftime, thanks to goals from Everbrightson Sana in the 30th minute and Gladdy Nelcen Kharbuli just before the break. The visitors solidified their victory with a third goal from Phrangki Buam in the 54th minute, as reported in a press release.
Diamond Harbour finished the season at the top of the table with 29 points, while Shillong Lajong followed closely behind with 28 points.
Individual Awards
Best Goalkeeper: Ashish Sibi (Dempo SC)
Golden Boot: Marcus Joseph (Dempo SC)
Most Valuable Player: Phrangki Buam (Shillong Lajong FC)
Match Highlights
With the championship already secured, Kibu Vicuna opted for a significantly rotated lineup for the final match. The game commenced with both teams displaying an aggressive attacking style right from the start.
Luka Majcen scored in the second minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Shortly after, Girik Khosla's left-footed shot narrowly missed the target.
As the match progressed, Diamond Harbour began to find their rhythm, utilizing the speed of Bryce Miranda and Girik on the flanks. Lalremruata nearly scored with a powerful shot that hit the post before the 25-minute mark.
Shillong Lajong gradually asserted their style of play, with Phrangki Buam and Figo Syndai attempting shots from distance, though both went over the bar.
Shillong Takes Control Before Halftime
The Red Dragons capitalized on their momentum to score first at the half-hour mark. They executed a short corner kick, leading to a looping cross that troubled the Diamond Harbour defense. Goalkeeper Susnata Malik failed to secure the ball, allowing Rudra Ved to head it back into play. Everbrightson Sana was quick to react, heading the ball into an empty net from close range.
Diamond Harbour pressed for an equalizer, with Sunday Ofolabi's shot from the edge of the box narrowly missing the target. In stoppage time, Hugo Diaz's header from a corner was spectacularly saved by Ranit Sarkar.
The visitors extended their lead just before halftime when Ephraim Lalremtluanga set up Phrangki Buam, who assisted Gladdy Kharbuli. The midfielder executed a stunning curling shot from the edge of the box that found the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.
Buam Seals the Victory in Second Half
The second half began with Diamond Harbour missing a crucial chance to reduce the deficit. Bryce Miranda's cross found Luka Majcen, but he failed to convert.
The home side's repeated mistakes in their half were punished by Shillong Lajong, with Phrangki Buam scoring his eighth goal of the season after a setup by Gladdy.
The Red Dragons showcased their attacking prowess, frequently breaking through the defense with quick passes and movement. Everbrightson Sana nearly added another goal after a brilliant pass from Kitboklang Khyriem, but Susnata Malik managed to deflect the shot.
At the other end, Hugo Diaz and substitute Sahil Harijan both came close to scoring, with their attempts just missing the target. In stoppage time, Shillong Lajong struck the crossbar when substitute Jakob Vanlalhimpuia's left-footed shot hit the woodwork and bounced back into play.