Durand Cup 2026 kicks off in Shillong with Lajong vs Nongkseh match

The opening match of the Durand Cup 2026 was held on July 30 at the JN Stadium in Shillong, featuring Shillong Lajong FC against newcomers Nongkseh S&SCC. Nongkseh entered the tournament unbeaten in all competitive fixtures since 2025, while Lajong, coached by Birendra Thapa, aimed to improve on its semifinal exits in 2024 and 2025. Thapa said, “Every tournament you play, you don’t play just to please the people and the fans. You want to win. You want to reach the final and lift the championship.” Captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri, who previously captained Lajong, noted his familiarity with the opposition.

Ahead of the match, the East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police announced traffic and parking regulations to ensure smooth movement and public safety. Restrictions began at 1 pm, diverting vehicles away from key junctions and designating multiple parking zones around the stadium, while several streets were declared no‑parking zones.