Shillong Lajong vs Northeast United FC: Top three player battles to watch out for in Durand Cup Semifinal

Shillong Lajong FC will take on Northeast United FC in the first semi-final on August 19.

The former I-League champions Shillong Lajong will lock horns with the defending Durand Cup champions in the first semi-final in Shillong. After a scintillating quarter-final round, teams are set to entertain the fans in the semis. The semi-final round will start on August 19 with a match-up between Shillong Lajong FC and Northeast United FC.

Both sides are coming on the back of completely contrasting performances in the quarter-finals. Shillong Lajong had to go through an ordeal against the Indian Navy FT in the first quarter-final. After going down by a goal Lajong made a comeback to script a victory. Whereas Northeast United eased past the challenge of Bodoland FC with a comprehensive 4-0 victory.

The semi-final clash will be exciting as both sides boast of some amazing players in their roster. On the one hand, there is star-studded Northeast United FC, whereas on the other, Shillong Lajong rely on their talented youngsters. In this article, we will look into three key player battles to watch out for in the first semi-final between Shillong Lajong FC and Northeast United FC.

Also Read: Shillong Lajong vs NorthEast United FC Preview, team news, lineups & prediction | Durand Cup 2025 semifinal

3. Everbrightson Sana vs Michel Zabaco

A 22-year-old against the captain of the opposition. That sounds like an exciting battle. Shillong Lajong’s young sensation Everbrightson Sana has proved to be a revelation for his team in this tournament. With 4 goals in as many matches, Sana is one of the top goal scorers in this year’s Durand Cup. It is not just about the goals, but the timing of them makes those goals more special.

The youngster scored a winner against Indian Navy FT in the quarter-final, which shows that he likes the big stage. Michel Zabaco would be ready to test the resolve of Shillong’s young forward. Northeast United have been one of the most defensively resilient sides in this tournament and Zabaco has played a huge role in that.

2. Damaitphang Lyngdoh vs Andy Rodriguez

One of the stars of the comeback victory for Shillong in the first quarter-final was Damaitphang Lyngdoh. It was his cross that ended up in the goal to bring parity. This is where things started to turn around for Shillong Lajong against Indian Navy FT.

But finding spaces to create these chances against Northeast United FC will be a big task. Andy Rodriguez commands Northeast United’s midfield, and the new signing has been impressive in the tournament so far. This battle will decide which team gains control in the centre of the park.

1. Kenstar Kharshong vs Alaeddine Ajaraie

This battle will have a huge impact on the result of this clash. Alaeddine Ajaraie is in fine goalscoring form, and for anyone to stop him, it would take a Herculean effort. The overseas defenders in the Indian Super League have also had a tough time trying to deal with Ajaraie when he is on song.

However, Kenstar Kharshong is a promising talent who has earned the captain’s armband with his unflinching performances in defense. This time, he will have the responsibility to break the goalscoring momentum that Ajaraie is riding on at the moment.

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