Shillong, March 8 (NationPress) Phrangki Buam and Kenstar Kharshong each netted a goal as Shillong Lajong FC made a remarkable comeback to defeat Real Kashmir FC and clinch three vital points in the Indian Football League 2025-26 at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.

The Snow Leopards took an early lead thanks to a goal from Seijoseph Haokip, but strikes from Phrangki Buam and Kenstar Kharshong secured Shillong Lajong's inaugural victory of the season.

In the lineup, Shillong Lajong head coach Birendra Thapa made a solitary adjustment, introducing Abhay Gurung in place of Figo Syndai. Conversely, Ishfaq Ahmed of Real Kashmir also made a single change, with defender Basid Ahmed Bhat stepping in for Hyder Yousuf.

The initial 20 minutes saw both teams evenly matched, neutralizing each other in midfield. The home team adhered to their characteristic short-passing game while occasionally finding Everbrightson Sana in advantageous positions via longer deliveries.

Real Kashmir capitalized on their physicality, working to win second balls from long passes originating from the backline, a strategy that yielded results. Shedrack Charles outmuscled a defender to deliver a low cross, which Seijoseph Haokip finished smoothly to open the scoring.

Reacting positively to the setback, the Reds equalized just six minutes before halftime. Phrangki Buam advanced along the right flank and unleashed a powerful right-footed shot from the edge of the box that soared past goalkeeper Syed Bin Abdul Kadir before he could react.

Real Kashmir started the second half aggressively, creating two excellent opportunities, both squandered by captain Mohammad Inam. The first chance came from Shedrack Charles, who set up Inam, but he headed wide. Shortly after, Inam again failed to convert from a promising position, leaving the Snow Leopards relieved.

In the 57th minute, the home side capitalized on the missed chances, taking the lead. After a sustained possession spell, Abhay Gurung threaded a pass to center-back Kenstar Kharshong, who made a timely run into the box and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.

With the score against them, Real Kashmir pushed higher on the pitch. Ishfaq Ahmed brought in fresh players, which allowed them more ball control. However, they struggled to generate serious threats against the defense or goalkeeper Siwel Rymbai.

Meanwhile, Shillong Lajong exploited the spaces left by Real Kashmir, looking dangerous on counter-attacks. Phrangki Buam tested the goalkeeper, but Syed Kadir made an excellent save to keep the scoreline intact. In response, Real Kashmir ramped up pressure with long balls into the box, yet the defense remained resolute, effectively managing the threat.

Ultimately, the Reds maintained their lead to secure their first victory of the season.