Durand Cup Quarterfinals: Shillong Lajong, Bodoland FC Eye Upsets Against Navy and NorthEast United
New Delhi, August 16 — The 134th edition of the Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament, is set for a gripping quarterfinal match day as the knockout stage kicks off in Shillong and Kokrajhar. Fans in both football-loving cities are bracing for high-intensity clashes that promise drama, skill, and raw emotion — the kind that has defined the group stages.
Shillong: Local Favourites Lajong Take on Unbeaten Navy
The action begins at 4:00 PM IST at Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where Shillong Lajong FC will host the formidable Indian Navy FT.
Lajong, coached by Birendra Thapa, squeezed into the quarterfinals as one of the best second-placed teams, showcasing a mix of attacking flair and gritty resilience. They registered a strong win over Rangdajied United and narrowly lost to defending champions NorthEast United, proving they can compete with top-tier opposition.
The attacking duo of Everbrightson Sana and Phrangki Buam has been central to Lajong’s success, with the team averaging over two goals per game. Their aggressive style, coupled with vocal home support, could be a decisive factor.
“We play very aggressively and very attacking, which is our biggest strength. We have the quality on the ground, and we’ll use every bit of it. I always want to win and encourage the players to give their best and enjoy the game,” Coach Thapa told reporters ahead of the clash.
Navy’s Unbeaten March
The Indian Navy FT sailed through the group stages unbeaten, topping Group F after a dramatic comeback win against TRAU FC. Late goals from Pintu Mahata and Sreyas V.G sealed their knockout berth, with goalkeeper Bhaskar Roy anchoring a solid defensive unit.
Physicality, fitness, and set-piece execution are the Navy’s trademarks — traits that could neutralise Lajong’s high-tempo attack.
“Our preparation is good, the players are in shape, motivated, and heading in the right direction. Tomorrow will be a beautiful game, and we will fight. In football, we can never expect to win, but we can always promise a good game and a good fight,” said Navy head coach Ramesh Rai.
Tactical Contrast on the Cards
This quarterfinal pits Lajong’s free-flowing offence against Navy’s disciplined defensive structure. Expect Lajong to press high and exploit wing play, while Navy will likely absorb pressure and hit back through counters and set pieces.
Kokrajhar: Bodoland’s Dream Run Meets NorthEast’s Title Defence
Later, at 7:00 PM IST, attention shifts to SAI Stadium, Kokrajhar, where Bodoland FC face the ultimate challenge — defending champions NorthEast United FC.
Bodoland’s Historic Journey
In their first-ever Durand Cup appearance, Bodoland FC have been the tournament’s surprise package. They topped their group with a perfect nine points, including a statement 4-0 win over ITBP FT in pouring rain and a stunning 1-0 upset of ISL side Punjab FC.
The attacking trio of Timothi Narzary, Pedro Astray, and Gwgwmsar Gayary has combined pace, creativity, and finishing power to devastating effect. The Kokrajhar crowd, known for its passionate football culture, has created one of the tournament’s most intimidating atmospheres.
Coach Vikash Panthi has struck a balance between attack and defence, and while he kept tactics under wraps, he hinted at a well-prepared plan.
“Tactics will be displayed on the pitch during the match,” Panthi said, his confidence buoyed by the team’s momentum and fan backing.
NorthEast United: Champions with Pedigree
NorthEast United FC, led by Spanish coach Juan Pedro Benali, are chasing back-to-back Durand Cup titles. Their campaign so far has been marked by fluid attacking football and disciplined organisation, a continuation of their 2024 championship-winning style.
Moroccan striker Alaaeddine Ajaraie has been in lethal form, supported by a squad blending experienced ISL campaigners with emerging young talent. Their unbeaten run in the group stage underscores both their quality and depth.
Benali’s tactical flexibility allows NorthEast to adapt to any challenge, but the intensity of Bodoland’s home advantage could test even seasoned champions.
Durand Cup: A Legacy of Footballing Heritage
First played in 1888, the Durand Cup is the oldest football competition in Asia and the third oldest in the world. Over the decades, it has evolved from a military tournament to a prestigious national event, featuring I-League clubs, ISL teams, armed forces sides, and regional powerhouses.
The tournament’s expansion to venues like Shillong and Kokrajhar reflects its growing geographic reach and its role in promoting football culture in India’s Northeast.
What’s at Stake
- For Shillong Lajong: A chance to make their first semifinal appearance in years, powered by home support.
- For Indian Navy FT: An opportunity to cement their reputation as giant-killers in knockout football.
- For Bodoland FC: A historic semifinal berth in their debut season.
- For NorthEast United: Staying on course for consecutive titles and strengthening their dominance in the competition.
Reader Takeaway
Fans in Shillong and Kokrajhar can expect two contrasting but equally thrilling quarterfinals — one a battle of styles between Lajong’s attack and Navy’s discipline, the other a test of Bodoland’s fearless momentum against NorthEast’s championship pedigree.
Final Thoughts — TheTrendingPeople.com
The Durand Cup’s 134th edition is proving once again why it holds such a special place in Indian football. With passionate crowds, historic venues, and knockout drama, the tournament is delivering on its promise of both heritage and excitement. Whether it’s Lajong riding the energy of Shillong or Bodoland feeding off Kokrajhar’s euphoria, today’s matches will define not just semifinal line-ups but also the narratives of underdogs and champions in Indian football.