By Our Reporter
Shillong, April 25: Shillong Lajong FC will look to begin their Championship Stage campaign on a strong note when they take on Dempo SC on Sunday at 6:30 PM at the SSA Stadium in Polo, Shillong.
The Reds head into the crucial fixture high on confidence after a dominant 6-1 victory over Aizawl FC in the North-East Derby, a result that has provided a major boost to the squad ahead of the next phase of the competition.
With that emphatic win still fresh, Shillong Lajong will be aiming to carry the momentum forward and make an early statement in the Championship Stage. At present, Lajong occupy third place on the points table with 17 points from nine matches and remain firmly in the race for the top spot.
Dempo SC, on the other hand, are placed sixth with nine points from the same number of matches and will be equally eager to improve their standing.
The upcoming clash carries added significance for the home side, as a victory would help them reduce the gap with league leaders Diamond Harbour FC and strengthen their push in the title race.
Head coach Birendra Thapa expressed confidence ahead of the encounter, stressing the need to maintain the winning momentum while making full use of home advantage.
He also urged supporters to come out in large numbers, believing that strong backing from the stands could make a decisive difference in such an important match.
With valuable points at stake and the Championship Stage beginning, the match promises to be a high-intensity contest between two determined sides.
Fans will be able to watch the match live on Sony Sports Network, DD Sports, and OTT platforms SonyLIV and Waves.
With the Championship Stage now set to begin, Sunday’s encounter could prove to be a defining moment in Shillong Lajong FC’s campaign, not only in terms of points but also in setting the tone for the battles ahead.
Backed by strong recent form, home support at the SSA Stadium, and the confidence of a convincing derby triumph, the Reds will be eager to stamp their authority early and show that they are genuine contenders for the title.
For Dempo SC, the match offers an equally important opportunity to revive their challenge and upset the home side’s momentum. With both teams aware of the stakes and every point becoming increasingly valuable at this stage of the season, fans can expect an intense, hard-fought contest under the Shillong lights, where momentum, belief and composure could ultimately decide the outcome.
