The Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) on Wednesday announced its squad for the Senior Men’s National Football Championship for the Santosh Trophy 2025-26 preliminary round, with experienced midfielder Hardy Cliff Nongbri named as the captain.
The state team will be coached by reputed tactician Khlain Pyrkhat Syiemlieh, who expressed confidence in the balanced squad selected for the prestigious national tournament.
Shillong will host Group E matches of the preliminary round at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo. The group comprises Meghalaya, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Meghalaya will face Sikkim on December 19 and Arunachal Pradesh on December 23, while Sikkim and Arunachal will clash on December 21. All matches will kick off at 4 PM, with tickets available at the venue on match days.
The MFA has selected players from six local clubs, along with three footballers currently playing outside Meghalaya. The team has been undergoing an intensive selection camp over the past few days to help players gel and adapt to Coach Syiemlieh’s playing philosophy.
Speaking after the final selection, captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri said he was honoured to lead the state.
“I am proud to be given the responsibility of captaining the team. It is an honour for all of us to represent Meghalaya. We have a good squad and a great coach, and we are adapting to his style,” Hardy said.
Recalling the strong fan support witnessed during major Shillong tournaments, Hardy made a heartfelt appeal to football lovers.
“Thanks to the public for always supporting us players. I once again request them to come and cheer for us, this time as we play for the state team,” he added.
Coach Khlain Pyrkhat Syiemlieh said Hardy’s experience, leadership qualities and consistent performance for Nongkseh this season made him the natural choice for captain. He admitted that preparation time was short but stated that the MFA had worked hard to assemble a competitive and balanced squad.
Only the winners of the nine preliminary groups will qualify for the final round, along with 2024-25 champions West Bengal, runners-up Kerala, and hosts Assam, making every match crucial for Meghalaya.
Meghalaya Squad – Santosh Trophy 2025-26
Goalkeepers:
Wanteilang Malngiang, Banshanskhem Kharsyntiew, Nister Roy Suting
Defenders:
Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Apborlang Kurbah, Wilbert D Marbaniang, Iohborlang L Lyngkhoi, Allen Camper L Nongbri, Arlangky Nongsiej, Mebankhraw K Wahlang
Midfielders:
Hamedamanbha Wahlang, Riborlang L Lyngkhoi, Babysunday Marngar, Dibormi Kassar, Mebanshngain Kurkalang, Fairming Suting, Robertson M Khongriah, Hardy Cliff Nongbri, Kynsaibor Lhuid
Forwards:
Shano Tariang, Deibormame Tongper, Dawanchwa C Challam
Support Staff:
Khlain Pyrkhat Syiemlieh (Head Coach), Sailon Syngkrem (Assistant Coach), Dious Lapasam (Goalkeeping Coach), Cliff R Nongrum (Manager), Wanbokstar Syiemiong (Physio)