Did Shillong Lajong FC Really Thump Malaysian Armed Forces 6-0 in Durand Cup 2025?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shillong Lajong FC showcased excellent teamwork and skill.
- Braces from Sana and Buam highlight the team's attacking prowess.
- The match emphasized the importance of youth development in football.
- Shillong's performance sets a competitive tone for Group E.
- Substitutes made significant contributions to the scoreline.
Shillong, July 26 (NationPress) Shillong Lajong FC commenced their Durand Cup 2025 journey with a remarkable 6-0 triumph against the Armed Forces Football Team of Malaysia in the inaugural Group E match on Saturday.
Guided by two goals each from Everbrightson Sana and Phrangki Buam, the youthful squad from Shillong showcased an outstanding display, with substitutes Treimiki Lamurong and Deibormame Tongper also contributing to the scoreline.
From the outset, Shillong dominated proceedings with rapid passing and persistent pressing. Their efforts bore fruit in the 12th minute when Sana outjumped the Malaysian defense to head home a precise cross from Rudra Ved. This sequence stemmed from a well-executed free-kick routine initiated by Sheen Stevenson, establishing the tone for the lopsided match.
The visitors had a fleeting opportunity to equalize in the first half through Mohamad Syamim Yusoff, who attempted a volley following a clearance from Shillong keeper Siwel Rymbai, but the attempt sailed wide. That was as close as the Malaysian side would come as Shillong kept the game firmly in their control.
The second half kicked off with a burst of goals. Buam extended the lead in the 47th minute, steering in another accurate free-kick from Stevenson. Just two minutes later, Buam struck again, this time coolly finishing a through ball following a slick attacking move to make it 3-0.
Sana completed his brace in the 66th minute, turning sharply in the box before skillfully finishing past the Malaysian goalkeeper. The fifth goal came from substitute Treimiki Lamurong, who delivered a magnificent strike from the edge of the area in the 73rd minute.
In the final moments of the match, Shillong capped off their performance with a flourish. Substitute Deibormame Tongper concluded a well-coordinated attacking play to finalize the score at 6-0.
This resounding victory not only marks a stellar beginning for Shillong Lajong in the Durand Cup but also sends a clear message to the other contenders in Group E.