Shillong : Langsning FC scripted history on Wednesday by securing a place in their first-ever Meghalaya State League (MSL) final after defeating Shillong Lajong FC 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a gripping 1-1 draw after extra time at the SSA Stadium.
The second semifinal of MSL 2026 produced one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament, with both Shillong-based clubs displaying attacking football and determination throughout the contest.
Shillong Lajong drew first blood in the 21st minute when Fridison Wanniang brilliantly converted a left-footed effort after receiving a well-timed pass from Deibormame Tongper. Lajong dominated much of the first half and looked on course for a place in the final.
However, Langsning FC came back strongly after the break and increased the pressure on the Lajong defence. Despite creating several chances, they struggled to find the equaliser until tournament top scorer Nelson Rymbai stepped up in the 80th minute. Capitalising on a long throw-in from Chusrang Sangma, Nelson netted his 23rd goal of the season to level the score and send the match into extra time.
The additional 30 minutes produced several exciting moments but neither side managed to find the winning goal. Fridison Wanniang came close to restoring Lajong’s lead with his pace and skill troubling the Langsning defence, but the deadlock remained intact.
The match was ultimately decided through penalties, where Langsning FC held their nerve. Goalkeeper Nister Roy Suting emerged as the hero by saving one of Shillong Lajong’s spot-kicks, while Samchaphrang Lato missed the final penalty, allowing Langsning to clinch a 4-2 victory in the shootout.
The victory sets up a historic Meghalaya State League final between Langsning FC and tournament debutants Nongkseh SSCC on June 5. The final will also guarantee a fifth different champion in the history of the competition, an initiative of the Meghalaya Football Association supported by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya.
Thousands of football fans witnessed the thrilling encounter and stayed until the final whistle, making it one of the most memorable matches of the season. With both finalists now having a few days to recover, football enthusiasts across Meghalaya can look forward to a spectacular title clash between two teams chasing history.