Lajong to face East Bengal today

Our Staff Correspondent

Shillong, May 23: Shillong Lajong U-18s will meet Kolkata side, East Bengal FC in the semi-finals of the U-18 Youth League at the JN Stadium in Shillong at 7PM on Thursday.

Shillong Lajong has been impressive throughout the tournament since the qualification round that took place earlier this year. The Junior Reds have been undefeated since the qualifying round (Shillong-Guwahati zone| January-February) of the U-18 Youth League. They defeated SAI Guwahati (4-0 & 1-0), Rangdajied United (4-0 & 1-1 draw) and North East United (2-1 & 2-0) prior to the final round qualification.

They happen to be the only team to win all three games during the final round amongst all the four groups. Lajong’s attacking display has been impressive so far. Kynsailang Khongsit, Phrangki Buam, Parvaj Bhuiya, Donboklang Lyngdoh and Samuel Kynshi were all on target in the Final Round Group stage of the U-18 Youth League.

The Lajong youngsters sailed through to the semi-finals from Group D Final Round after defeating Aizawl FC 1-0, Ozone Football Academy 2-0 and FC Goa 2-1. The boys, therefore, ended their Group D stage at the top with 9 points from 3 games. They scored a total of 5 goals and conceded just 1 goal after some brilliant displays by the defence and goalkeeper throughout.

Lajong Coach, Bobby Nongbet commented on Thursday’s clash. He said, “East Bengal is a strong team with a lot of quality players. It will be a tough encounter and we will give our best.”

Our boys have worked very hard and have prepared really well for this tournament. It is a wonderful feeling to reach the semi-finals and we are looking forward to an exciting game.”