Northeast Desk, 22nd August: Shillong Lajong FC delivered a stunning performance in the Durand Cup 2024 quarterfinals, defeating East Bengal 2-1 in front of a packed crowd at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on August 21. The match saw Lajong take an early lead through Marcos Rudwere Silva, who headed in from a corner in the 8th minute.
Despite East Bengal dominating possession, they struggled to break through Lajong’s resolute defense. The Kolkata giants managed to equalize in the 77th minute with a strike from Nandhakumar Sekar. However, Lajong struck back just six minutes later when Figo Syndai capitalized on a low cross from Rudwere, scoring the decisive goal that sent the home fans into a frenzy.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma took to Twitter to congratulate the team, highlighting the excitement of the match and expressing anticipation for the upcoming semifinals.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Shillong Lajong, who have now eliminated two Indian Super League teams, including FC Goa, on their way to a historic semifinal appearance. With tactical discipline and clinical finishing, Lajong is now poised to challenge for their first-ever Durand Cup title.
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