Durand Cup 2025 Quarter-Final 1 Preview: Shillong Lajong vs Indian Navy FT

The knockout stage of the Durand Cup 2025 kicks off with a match that promises both passion and precision. On 16 August, Shillong’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will set the stage for Shillong Lajong’s meeting with Indian Navy FT.

Playing at home, Lajong have arrived here as one of the competition’s strongest runners-up. Their group campaign included a commanding 3–1 win over Rangdajied United in the local derby, a performance that underlined their attacking intent. The Highlanders will again look to Everbrightson Sana and Phrangki Buam, both instrumental in creating and converting chances. It’s worth remembering that this stage was where Lajong stunned East Bengal FC in last year’s edition.

Indian Navy FT, meanwhile, topped Group F through sheer consistency. Their football has been marked by discipline, teamwork, and moments of quality in the final third. Midfielder Roshan Panna, one of the tournament’s leading assist providers, has been central to their balanced approach.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, with a capacity of 15,100, will be packed with Lajong’s fervent supporters. But the Navy are no strangers to pressure, and their organised game plan could neutralise the hosts’ home advantage.

It’s a contest that pits flair against discipline, a fortress against a fleet. For the winner, the semi-finals await — for the fans, a high-intensity, tactically intriguing 90 minutes is on the horizon.