Shillong, Mar 13: Shillong Lajong will look to continue their unbeaten run in the Indian Football League 2025-26 on Saturday as they host Diamond Harbour FC knowing full well that victory would take them to first place in the IFL standings after Round 3. Kick-off at the SSA Stadium, Polo, will be at 6:30pm.
Lajong fans have hitherto only been able to dream of leading the race for the IFL (previously I-League) title but now the chance is within their club’s grasp. After Round 2 Lajong, Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC were all tied on 4 points, with Aizawl having the best goal difference. Both Aizawl and Chanmari – both Mizoram-based sides – have drawn their Round 3 encounters against Real Kashmir and Dempo respectively, both in 2-2 scorelines.
A win for Lajong will therefore move them to top spot with 7 points.
SLFC head coach Birendra Thapa expressed confidence ahead of the clash and said he has full trust in his players to deliver another strong performance.
“We have had a good start to the season with 4 points from two matches and the team is gaining confidence with every game. I have full trust in my players and the work they have been putting in during training. We will go into the match focused and ready to give our best,” he said.
Diamond Harbour are new entrants to the IFL, having won the I-League 2 last season. The West Bengal-based team are headed by the experienced coach Kibu Vicuña, who previously led Mohun Bagan to the I-League 2019-20 title.
“Diamond Harbour FC are a strong side with a very experienced squad. With a coach like Kibu Vicuña, who has won the I-League before, they are very well organised and know how to compete at this level. We respect them but our focus will be on our own performance,” he added.
Diamond Harbour lost their opening match to Sreenidi Deccan 1-0 on February 28 before winning against Dempo SC 2-1 on March 8.
The team have a wealth of experience, featuring players like Jobby Justin and Luka Majcen. Up against them will be the young guns of Lajong, who have shown excellent ability and a hunger to prove their detractors wrong.
It has not hurt SLFC that all three of their first matches this season are at home. Following Saturday’s fixture will be five away games, so Lajong need to make it count against Diamond Harbour.
