Football in Shillong is more than a sport — it is a tradition woven into the daily life of the city. From school playgrounds to neighbourhood fields and roadside discussions, the game has long been part of Meghalaya’s identity.
On August 31, that passion will take centre stage when Shillong Lajong FC face Nongkseh Sports & Social Cultural Club (SS&CC) in the opening match of Group E of the 135th Durand Cup at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The local derby will be a landmark occasion for Meghalaya football as three Shillong-based clubs compete in Asia’s oldest football tournament for the first time. While Shillong Lajong return with ambitions of finally lifting the coveted trophy, Nongkseh SS&CC arrive on the national stage for their historic Durand Cup debut.
For Shillong Lajong, the tournament represents another opportunity to complete a journey that has taken them closer to glory in recent years. The Reds reached the semi-finals in the last two editions — their best-ever performances in the competition — but fell short of a place in the final.
Head coach Birendra Thapa believes his side has unfinished business.
“Every tournament you play, you don’t play just to please the people and the fans. You want to win. You want to reach the final and lift the championship. Last time we lost in the semi-final. This time we want to reach the final and win it,” Thapa said.
However, the Lajong coach is aware that the opening fixture will be far from straightforward.
“They are a good side. They’ve signed many good players from Shillong. It will be a tough match, but we are going all out,” he added.
Standing in their way are a confident Nongkseh side, who enter the competition after winning the Meghalaya State League. The club’s Durand Cup debut marks a significant milestone in its rise through the state’s football structure.
Leading the challenge is captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri, who knows Shillong Lajong well after previously captaining the Reds during their semi-final run in the 133rd edition of the tournament.
“Shillong Lajong is a very good team. I know them very well because they were my teammates,” Nongbri said.
But friendship will be put aside once the match begins.
“We have experienced players, players who have played in the I-League and ISL. We also have a good combination of juniors and seniors. We’ll give our best and we’ll try to win,” he added.
Nongkseh head coach Joseph Naik believes his players have earned their place among India’s top footballing teams.
“We’re grateful for this opportunity because the Durand Cup is such a prestigious tournament. We respect Shillong Lajong, they’ve been an important figure in Indian football. But we’ve been working very hard, and now it’s our time to get the job done,” Naik said.
Despite the derby tag, the contest is expected to be defined by respect rather than rivalry. Several players from both teams share past connections, having played together or competed against each other at different levels.
Shillong Lajong captain Kenstar Kharshong expects a competitive encounter.
“They have some good and experienced players. I think it will be a very good match. I hope the supporters come and enjoy watching it,” he said.
Away from the spotlight, preparations at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium have been equally intense. Pitch curator Uttam Kalita, who has prepared the playing surface for all three Durand Cup editions in Shillong, said hosting the tournament continues to inspire the local football community.
“Whenever matches are held here, our enthusiasm increases. It’s our responsibility to make the ground look good, so we do everything we can,” Kalita said.
The excitement has also spread among organisers and supporters, who believe the Durand Cup has strengthened Meghalaya’s position on India’s football map.
Local organiser Smita Chettri said expectations have grown with every edition.
“Every year the expectations are higher. This is our third year and people have seen how good the previous editions were,” she said.
For fans, however, the tournament is about more than results. It represents opportunity, identity and pride.
Young supporter Vebanshar Kharkongor, who has followed major Durand Cup matches in Shillong, believes the competition has provided a platform for local players.
“It gives Khasi players a chance to play with the big teams. Football connects families and friends here,” he said.
As Shillong prepares for its derby night, two teams will step onto the field carrying different ambitions. Shillong Lajong are chasing a long-awaited breakthrough, while Nongkseh are looking to announce their arrival on the national stage.
One team will walk away with three points. But for Meghalaya football, the biggest achievement has already arrived — a city, its clubs and its supporters sharing the spotlight at one of India’s most historic football tournaments.
(Inputs from Durand Cup)
