Shillong Derby Set to Spark Fire in Durand Cup 2025 as Jamshedpur FC Eyes Redemption
The much-awaited Shillong Derby between Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC is set to take center stage at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on Tuesday in the 134th edition of the Durand Cup. Simultaneously, Jamshedpur FC will look to strengthen their campaign as they take on Indian Army FT at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur. With both fixtures critical to group standings, fans can expect a thrilling day of football action.
Shillong Derby: Lajong Look to Extend Dominance
Lajong Riding High on Momentum
Shillong Lajong FC, one of the most popular football clubs in Meghalaya, enters the derby with confidence, having started their Durand Cup campaign with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Malaysian Armed Forces. The Red Dragons, led by coach Birendra Thapa, were clinical in their finishing and dominant throughout the match.
Goals from Phrangki Buam and Everbrightson Sana, who each bagged a brace, and contributions from Treimiki Lamurong and Deibormamae Tongper, highlighted the attacking depth of the team. Their solid backline and attacking chemistry will be key in the high-pressure Shillong Derby.
Speaking about the upcoming clash, head coach Birendra Thapa said,
“Every match is important and a must-win game for us. Rangdajied is a strong side with many young and talented players, much like our own team. I believe it will be a good contest. A win will take us one step closer to the knockout stage.”
Last year, Shillong Lajong made it to the semifinals before bowing out to the eventual champions, NorthEast United FC. Their strong performance last season and explosive start this year make them firm favorites for Tuesday’s showdown.
Rangdajied Eyeing an Upset
On the other hand, Rangdajied United FC, who finished third in the Shillong Premier League (SPL), will aim to break their losing streak against their city rivals. Earlier this season, they lost both SPL matches to Lajong by a 1-2 margin. However, the Durand Cup offers a new stage and new opportunity.
Head coach Aibanjop Shadap remains optimistic despite the challenge ahead.
“A derby match is always special, no matter where you are in the world. We will give our best on the field to make our fans proud and aim for a positive result. But we know it will be a tough game. Lajong is a strong side with the experience of playing in the I-League and are better than us in many aspects.”
Rangdajied's squad, filled with energetic youngsters and emerging talents, will look to rewrite their fortunes and make a mark in India’s oldest football tournament.
Jamshedpur FC vs Indian Army FT: A Battle of Redemption and Grit
While the Shillong Derby captures the regional rivalry, the clash between Jamshedpur FC and Indian Army Football Team holds national significance. Both sides are chasing a spot in the knockout stages of the Durand Cup.
Jamshedpur FC Aims to Avenge Past Defeat
Jamshedpur FC, under the guidance of seasoned coach Khalid Jamil, are on a mission to overcome last year's heartbreak. In 2024, they were eliminated at the group stage, following a dramatic 2-3 defeat to Indian Army FT — a match in which they had led 2-0 at halftime.
This year, they began their campaign on a stronger note, beating Nepal’s Tribhuvan Army FC 3-2. Goals came from Sarthak Goloui, Manvir Singh, and Nikhil Barla, showing a balanced attack line. The squad features a good mix of youth and experience, which Jamil has emphasized throughout the build-up.
Speaking before the match, Jamil said:
“It is a good sign that we are able to field young players on our squad. They should also get a chance to prove themselves. The Indian Army is a very good team. They have good players, and their coach is also good. So we can't take the match lightly. We have to work hard and focus to get positive results.”
The Red Miners know that a win against Indian Army FT could all but seal their place in the next round and avenge their loss from the previous edition.
Indian Army FT: Disciplined and Determined
Managed by Manish Wahi, Indian Army FT has built a reputation as a physically dominant and tactically disciplined unit. Their squad boasts of players like Rahul Ramakrishnan, Shafeel PP, Samir Murmu, Liton Shil, Zothanpuia, and P. Christopher Kamei — all known for their consistency and leadership on the field.
This match will mark Indian Army's first outing in the tournament, and they will aim to start with a strong performance, particularly against a team they beat last year. The side’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure make them dangerous opponents for Jamshedpur.
What’s at Stake?
For both fixtures, the group standings are at stake. A win for Shillong Lajong would almost guarantee their spot in the knockout rounds, while a win for Rangdajied would reopen the group and boost their qualification hopes.
Similarly, a second win for Jamshedpur FC would put them in pole position to qualify, while Indian Army FT will look to open their campaign on a positive note and maintain their hold over the Red Miners.
Key Players to Watch
- Phrangki Buam (Shillong Lajong): A livewire in attack and known for his clinical finishing.
- Kenstar Kharshong (Shillong Lajong): The captain brings leadership and defensive stability.
- Nikhil Barla (Jamshedpur FC): Scored in the opener and will be crucial in breaking Indian Army's backline.
- Rahul Ramakrishnan (Indian Army FT): Veteran midfielder, key to controlling the tempo.
Final Thoughts – TheTrendingPeople.com
Tuesday's Durand Cup fixtures promise edge-of-the-seat action. From the emotionally charged Shillong Derby to the tactical duel between Jamshedpur FC and Indian Army FT, fans are in for a treat. These games are more than just about points; they are about pride, redemption, and making a statement in one of Asia's oldest football competitions.
The Durand Cup continues to grow in stature and importance, serving as a platform for clubs to test their mettle and for players to make their mark on the national stage. As Shillong prepares for its biggest footballing night and Jamshedpur gears up for redemption, all eyes will be on the pitch to witness who rises and who falters.
Stay tuned to TheTrendingPeople.com for live coverage, post-match reports, and expert analysis.