Durand Cup 2025: Shillong Lajong aim for flying start against Malaysian Armed Forces in opener

Shillong Lajong reached the semis of the Durand Cup last season.

Local favourites Shillong Lajong FC will set the ball rolling for Group E of the Durand Cup 2025 on July 26 when they take on Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM FA), at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong.

The match will kick off at 4:00 PM, following the opening ceremony, which will be inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad Sangma.

Also Read: Durand Cup 2025 Group E Preview: A tussle in India’s football hotbed, the NorthEast

Shillong Lajong aim to build on last season’s momentum

The local I-League side will look to build on their 2024 Durand campaign, where they stunned East Bengal in the quarter-finals before bowing out in the semi-finals to eventual champions NorthEast United FC.

The Red Dragons squad features a blend of youthful homegrown talent. Local stars Figo Syndai, Phrangki Buam, and Kenstar Kharshong expected to play key roles.

“We are very excited to play our first match of the Durand Cup at home. The team is well-prepared and eager to give it our all. The environment in the camp is very positive, the boys are looking sharp, focused, and ready to step up,” says Birendra Thapa, Head Coach of Shillong Lajong

Malaysian Armed Forces ready for Durand debut

Their opponents, the Malaysian Armed Forces, are participating in the Durand Cup for the very first time. Representing the armed forces of Malaysia, the team is expected to bring strong discipline, fitness, and intensity to their play, making them a potentially tricky opponent for any side in the group.

Speaking on the eve of the match, Malaysian Armed Forces Assistant Head Coach Masrizar bin Mizalan said, “We are looking forward to starting our Durand Cup campaign. It’s always special to represent the Malaysian Armed Forces on an international stage. The team has trained hard, and the players are motivated to perform well. Our focus is on executing our plans and playing disciplined football.

With NorthEast United FC and Rangdajied United FC also placed in Group E, every point will count in what promises to be a tightly-contested group.

Lajong will look to take early control of the group with a win, while Malaysian Armed Forces will aim to make a strong first impression in their debut campaign.

Shillong Lajong vs Malaysian Armed Forces: Live Streaming and Telecast Info

Fans can catch the Group E clash between Shillong Lajong FC and Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM FA) live on Sony Ten Sports Network. For online viewers, the match will be streamed live on Sony LIV.

The kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM IST on July 26, 2025, right after the opening ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

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