Shillong, October 30: Shillong Lajong Football Club will kick off their Indian Football League (IFL) 2026–27 campaign with an away match against Mohammedan Sporting Club at Kalyani Stadium on October 31, with the match scheduled to begin at 4 PM. The Reds will enter the new season aiming to build on their impressive performance in the 2025–26 campaign, when they finished second in the league standings, just one point behind champions Diamond Harbour FC. Having demonstrated consistency, resilience and the strength of their all-Indian squad last season, Shillong Lajong will be looking to carry that momentum forward and establish themselves as strong contenders for the league title once again.
However, their opening fixture will present a challenging test against Mohammedan SC, the former I-League champions who were relegated from the Indian Super League (ISL) last season. Both teams will be eager to begin the competition with a victory, making the opening encounter an important contest as they look to establish early momentum in the new season.
Ahead of the campaign, Shillong Lajong have strengthened their squad with a combination of international players, experienced domestic footballers and promising young talent. Among the notable additions are three Brazilian players, including defenders Arthur Tiotonio Pangaro and Joedson Dos Santos, along with winger Joao Vitor De Paula Morais, popularly known as Jota. Jota brings valuable experience in Indian football, having previously represented Chanmari FC during the last IFL season. His familiarity with the Indian football environment is expected to strengthen Lajong’s attacking options.
The club has also secured the services of promising striker Nelson Rymbai, who emerged as the top scorer in the Meghalaya State League, further boosting the team’s attacking capabilities. In midfield, Emanuel Lalchhanchhuaha has joined the Reds, bringing considerable experience from his previous appearances in both the Indian Super League and the Indian Football League. With these additions, Shillong Lajong will seek to combine the energy and determination of their young Indian players with the experience and technical abilities of their new signings.
The opening encounter against Mohammedan SC will provide an early indication of the team’s preparations and readiness for the challenges ahead. While Mohammedan SC will look to capitalise on their home advantage, Shillong Lajong will be determined to secure a positive result and begin their campaign with all three points.
Meanwhile, the match will be telecast live on Doordarshan Sports and Unite8 Sports, while live streaming will also be available on the ZEE5 and Waves applications.
