I-League 2024-25: Shillong Lajong Claims First Victory with an 8-0 Thrashing of Rajasthan United

Shillong, Dec 8 (NationPress) In a sensational display, Shillong Lajong FC overwhelmed Rajasthan United FC with an astounding score of 8-0 during Round 4 of the I-League 2024-25 at the SSA Stadium on Sunday.
After a disappointing start with no wins in their initial three matches, Lajong appeared determined and quickly opened the scoring in the third minute thanks to Figo Syndai. They extended their lead with two more goals from their Brazilian midfielders, Douglas Tardin (17’) and Daniel Goncalves (45+3’), concluding the first half at 3-0.
The second half saw no relief for Rajasthan United, as Lajong unleashed a barrage, netting five additional goals within a span of 21 minutes. Damaitphang Lyngdoh (49’), Tardin (51’), Marcos Rudwere (61’), Imanol Arana Sadaba (66’, penalty), and Hardy Nongbri (87’) all contributed to the scoreline. This marks the highest winning margin recorded in the ongoing I-League 2024-25.
After four matches, Shillong Lajong has accumulated five points, while Rajasthan remains at three. The Rajasthan team has much to reflect on regarding their dismal performance, as their defense was utterly inadequate from the outset and showed little sign of improvement throughout the match. Instead, they became increasingly chaotic, making life easier for the attackers of Shillong Lajong.
The Spanish midfielder, Sadaba, showcased his skills on the wing, causing problems for his markers as he navigated down the left to assist Figo for the opening goal in the third minute.
Rajasthan United faced relentless pressure afterward. Their goal area was under constant threat, and the margin widened in the 17th minute when Tardin deftly redirected a cross from the left. The third goal, scored just before the halftime whistle, came from a corner, where Daniel took advantage of ample space to unleash a left-foot shot into the net.
With the match firmly in their grasp, the hosts toyed with the visitors at will, adding five more goals to the tally. Even the home crowd, who initially reveled in their team's dominance, began to lose interest due to the one-sided nature of the match.