Shillong: The first quarterfinal of the Meghalaya State League (MSL) 2024 will feature an exciting clash between Shillong Lajong and defending champions Rangdajied United today at the Wahiajer Sports Complex.
Kickoff is set for 1 pm, promising a thrilling encounter between two of the state’s most prominent football teams.
This year’s MSL tournament, which resumed after a break in November, introduces a quarterfinal stage for the first time in its history, raising the stakes and intensifying the competition. Both teams secured their spots in the quarterfinals after topping their respective groups.
Rangdajied United faced a challenging start in Group D, drawing their opening match before bouncing back with two consecutive wins to claim the top spot. Shillong Lajong, on the other hand, dominated Group E in Wahiajer, winning all three of their matches.
Today’s matchup marks the fourth meeting between the two sides in MSL history. Their rivalry is rich in history, with the most notable encounter being the 2019 final, where Lajong triumphed in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. The two teams last met in the 2023 semifinals, where Rangdajied United made a dramatic comeback to secure victory in a penalty shootout after a loss in the first leg.
Both teams have undergone significant changes since their last meeting, making today’s game unpredictable. Their most recent encounter in the Shillong Premier League on October 24 saw Lajong edge out Rangdajied 2-1. However, Rangdajied United has been in strong form since, winning four consecutive matches.
With both clubs likely resting key players in recent SPL fixtures, the stage is set for a showdown with both teams eager to secure their place in the semifinals. Beyond a spot in the final four, the match offers added intrigue as the two sides vie for bragging rights in one of the fiercest rivalries in Meghalaya football.
As the competition heats up, fans can expect an intense and closely contested match between these two football powerhouses.
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