Shillong, July 30: Shillong Lajong FC asserted their dominance in the fiercely contested Shillong Derby, defeating Rangdajied United FC 3-1 in an electrifying Group Stage encounter of the 134th IndianOil Durand Cup at the JN Stadium on Tuesday.

Combining attacking flair with tactical discipline, Lajong took a decisive step towards the knockout stages with a statement win in front of their home crowd.

The match was a tale of contrasting approaches—Lajong’s methodical transitions and control met Rangdajied’s high-octane aggression. Ultimately, it was the Red Dragons’ clinical edge and composure that carried them through.

Lajong lined up in their trusted 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on fluid wing play and structured possession to pull Rangdajied out of shape. Mylliempdah, Lyngdoh, and Kharbuli orchestrated the attacks, frequently exploiting the spaces between Rangdajied’s midfield and defensive lines.

Rangdajied countered with a 4-3-3, emphasizing direct wing play and quick transitions. While they started with energy, their rhythm was repeatedly disrupted by a flurry of fouls—21 in total—that allowed Lajong to dictate the tempo.

Despite the aggressive tone, the opening half saw both teams exchange promising chances. Lajong slightly edged the possession (53%) and completed more passes (349 to Rangdajied’s 294), reflecting a more measured approach.

The deadlock was broken in first-half stoppage time when Mylliempdah capitalized on a defensive scramble following a set-piece. His sharp finish sent the home fans into celebration and gave Lajong a valuable 1-0 lead at the break.

Rangdajied responded brightly after the interval, drawing level in the 58th minute through Mebanshngain Kurkalang, who finished off a slick team move with composure. The equalizer momentarily shifted momentum, but Lajong were quick to regain control.

In the 66th minute, Lyngdoh restored Lajong’s lead with a smartly taken goal, finishing off the team’s most cohesive attacking sequence of the match. Rangdajied’s frustration grew, reflected in careless fouls and bookings that further hindered their push.

The killer blow came in the 80th minute, when Kharbuli capped off a lightning-fast counterattack, combining neatly with a teammate at the top of the box before slotting home with precision to seal the 3-1 win.

While the shot count remained relatively even, Lajong’s superior discipline, sharper passing (higher pass completion and accuracy), and clinical finishing made the difference. Rangdajied’s 21 fouls and two yellow cards proved costly, undermining any sustained momentum.

With this commanding performance, Shillong Lajong solidify their position atop the group and underline their credentials as serious contenders for the title. Rangdajied United, though spirited, must now regroup and bring more discipline into their game if they hope to progress.

The Shillong Derby once again lived up to expectations—intense, passionate and full of drama—but it’s Lajong who leave no doubt: the city still bleeds red.

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