Shillong Lajong vs NorthEast United FC: Three players to watch out for in Durand Cup semifinal

NorthEast United FC are the defending champion of the Durand Cup.

The stage is set for the all-important Durand Cup 2025 semi-final clash between defending champions NorthEast United FC and Shillong Lajong.

The Highlanders have qualified for their third successive semi-final, while Lajong make their second back-to-back appearance in the final four. Both teams have been consistent over the last couple of editions and are expected to give it their all in this match.

This match will be a repeat telecast of last season’s semi-final, where both sides came across each other at the very same venue and NorthEast United secured a ticket to the final. This will be their second meeting in this edition of the Durand Cup with the first match going NorthEast United’s way.

On that note, let us take a look at the three key players ahead of this game.

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

3. Parthib Gogoi (NorthEast United FC)

Parthib Gogoi will certainly be one of the players to look out for in this clash. The local lad has been one of the shining stars for the Highlanders over the years and will hope to bring his best game to the table when it matters the most.

The 22-year-old has four goals in as many matches against Lajong, including a hat-trick. Parthib loves scoring against Shillong Lajong and having found the back of the net with his first goal of the season in the last game, Gogoi will be poised to build upon his newly found confidence. 

2. Everbrighton Myliempdah (Shillong Lajong FC)

Everbrighton Myliempdah has been the shining star for Shillong Lajong in the Durand Cup this season. The forward has put in a series of match-winning and consistent performances in the competition and has played a vital role in leading his side to the semi-final.

With four strikes to his name, Everbrighton is the third joint-highest goalscorer at the moment. His ability to perform under pressure and lead his side from the front is what makes him so special. 

1. Alaaeddine Ajaraie (NorthEast United FC)

Alaaeddine Ajaraie came out to rescue NorthEast United yet again in the last match and turned the game into his side’s favour with his heroics on the pitch.

The Moroccan star has been consistently finding the back of the net and troubling backlines for fun. Ajaraie scored a brace in the quarter-final against Bodoland FC and continues to lead the charts with seven goals to his name. His performance will be the key to fuel the Highlanders’ hope to go through to the final once more.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.