Shillong Lajong FC Dominates Gokulam Kerala with 2-0 Win in IFL 2025-26
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Manjeri (Kerala), March 26 (NationPress) Shillong Lajong FC secured a convincing 2-0 victory against Gokulam Kerala FC in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 at the Payyanad Stadium on Thursday, thanks to goals from Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah and Tremiki Lamurong in each half. This triumph propelled Shillong Lajong into the top three with 10 points, matching both Sreenidi Deccan FC and Diamond Harbour FC on points and goal difference, while Gokulam fell to eighth place with just five points from five matches. Tremiki Lamurong earned the title of Player of the Match.
In a relatively unchanged lineup, Gokulam's head coach Dimitris Dimitriou maintained his starting XI, whereas Shillong's Bineria Thapa made one tactical adjustment, introducing Tremiki Lamurong to replace Abhay Gurung, opting for an all-Indian squad.
The match commenced energetically, with both sides eager to attack but initially unable to connect effectively. Gokulam was forced to make an early substitution in the 15th minute when Kingslee Fernandes was injured, leading to Ashis Pradhan stepping in.
Shillong nearly broke the deadlock shortly after, as Phrangki Buam set up Everbrightson Sana, who unfortunately missed the target. The visitors continued to press, with Buam challenging goalkeeper Shibinraj Kunniyil from outside the box.
The decisive moment came in the 36th minute when a well-executed play down the right flank culminated in a deflected ball inside the box. Everbrightson reacted swiftly, scoring with his right foot to put Shillong ahead 1-0.
Gokulam looked to equalize before halftime, with captain Mirjalol Kasimov coming close, but his header was easily dealt with by Siwel Rymbai, leaving Shillong with a 1-0 lead at the break.
After the interval, Gokulam controlled possession in search of an equalizer but struggled against a resolute Shillong defense. Meanwhile, Tremiki threatened again with a promising run that ended with a shot hitting the side netting.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 65th minute, with Tremiki finishing off a well-coordinated attack involving Lamlallian and Damaitphang Lyngdoh, making it 2-0 with a strong finish.
Despite having more ball possession, Gokulam could not breach Shillong’s organized defense in the final moments. Shillong Lajong held on to their 2-0 lead, marking an impressive away performance and securing their place in the top three.