Nelson Rymbai’s 90th-minute winner earned Shillong Lajong a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mohammedan SC in Kalyani.

Mohammedan Sporting Club suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Shillong Lajong FC in their Indian Football League 2026-27 encounter at the Kalyani Municipality Stadium on Saturday. Just when the contest appeared to be heading towards a goalless draw, substitute Nelson Rymbai found the net in the 90th minute to hand the visitors all three points.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Mohammedan, who had their share of opportunities but failed to make them count. Shillong Lajong, meanwhile, remained in the contest and found their breakthrough in the dying moments through two substitutes combining to produce the decisive goal.

Mohammedan fail to capitalise on their chances

The first half saw both sides struggle to find a breakthrough. Mohammedan had an opportunity in the 44th minute when Mahitosh Roy received a pass from Lalthankima, but his effort went wide. Earlier, Shillong Lajong had threatened from the right flank, with a cross in the 34th minute creating an opening.

Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah could not make the most of the delivery a few minutes later.

The teams went into the break with the scoreline goalless. Mohammedan made their first change before half-time, bringing on Lalthankima for Lalremsanga in the 40th minute.

The second half continued in a similar fashion, with neither side managing to establish control in front of goal. Mohammedan’s Adison Singh was booked in the 62nd minute, while the hosts introduced Maharabam Maxion in place of Fardin Ali Molla.

Shillong also made changes, with Tremiki Lamurong replacing Figo Syndai in the 62nd minute. The visitors gradually began creating more problems for the Mohammedan defence.

Nelson Rymbai delivers the late winner

Mohammedan goalkeeper Nikhil Deka produced an important save in the 69th minute, diving to his right to deny Kenstar Kharshong. Shillong continued to push forward, forcing another attempt in the 74th minute.

Both sides turned to their benches in search of a winner. Shillong introduced Abelson Jachi and Nelson Rymbai in the 73rd minute, while Mohammedan brought on Yash Chickro for Hira Mondal in the 87th minute.
The decisive moment arrived in the 90th minute. Abelson Jachi picked out fellow substitute Nelson Rymbai, who made no mistake with a right-footed finish to put Shillong Lajong ahead.

Overkindness Mawnai received a yellow card in the 88th minute, while Shillong made another change, bringing on Abhay Gurung for Tchê Tchê. Mohammedan had little time to find a response as the referee added six minutes at the end of the second half.

Despite the late push, Mohammedan could not find an equaliser. Shillong Lajong held on to secure a valuable 1-0 away victory, with Nelson Rymbai’s late strike proving the difference.