Shillong Lajong Vs Malaysian Armed Forces Live Streaming: Preview, When And Where To Watch Durand Cup 2025 Clash

Shillong Lajong FC will take on the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM FA) in Group E's opening match of the 134th Durand Cup on July 26, 2025. This significant fixture takes place at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma will attend the opening ceremony.

Dating back to 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament and remains a unmissable fixture in the Indian football calendar. And this encounter marks ATM FA's debut in this prestigious football tournament.

Shillong Lajong's Strong Preparations

Shillong Lajong produced a dream run in the previous. The I-League outfit defeated East Bengal to reach the semi-finals, where NorthEast United FC, the eventual champions, eliminated them last year. Their 2025 squad features a balanced blend of experienced international players and promising local talent.

Brazilian Douglas Tardin leads the attacking line, supported by hometown players Figo Syndai, Phrangki Buam, and Kenstar Kharshong. Head coach Birendra Thapa has highlighted the squad’s preparedness and high spirits ahead of playing in front of a passionate home crowd. Thapa commented, “the camp is in high spirits and the players are ready to deliver,” expressing confidence in the team's readiness.

Malaysian Armed Forces Make Their Debut

Debutants Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM FA) are likely to demonstrate their characteristic discipline and intensity. As representatives of the Malaysian military, ATM FA arrive with a reputation for organisational rigour and physicality. New to the Indian tournament scene, their approach draws upon principles of collective effort and resilience.

They will aim to make a substantial impact in Group E. ATM FA have not widely circulated official statements about their strategy, but their military background suggests mental and physical resilience, traits likely to inform their game plan.

Tight Competition In Group E

Group E also features holders NorthEast United FC and Rangdajied United, another Shillong-based outfit. The group stage format creates high stakes for every match; only the top teams will progress directly to the knockout rounds. Second-placed teams must rely on their ranking against other groups for potential advancement.