Shillong Lajong FC produced a determined second-half performance to earn a 1-1 draw against Chanmari FC in their first home fixture of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 season at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Friday, November 6.

Substitute Abelson Jachi emerged as the hero for the hosts, finding the net in the 78th minute to rescue a point after Joedson dos Santos’ unfortunate own goal had given Chanmari the lead in the first half.

Match Result: Shillong Lajong FC 1-1 Chanmari FC

Shillong Lajong FC: Abelson Jachi (78′)
Chanmari FC: Joedson dos Santos (OG, 24′)

Chanmari, making their first appearance of the new campaign, started with confidence and demonstrated impressive defensive discipline. Shillong Lajong, meanwhile, were looking to build on their winning start to the season and make their home advantage count.

Chanmari Take the Lead Through an Unfortunate Own Goal

Shillong Lajong began brightly, with Ephraim HC and Figo Syndai combining on the left to win an early corner in the fourth minute. Captain Kenstar Kharshong subsequently tested the Chanmari defence with a free-kick, but goalkeeper Zothanmawia dealt comfortably with the delivery.

The visitors gradually settled into the contest, with their defensive unit doing well to contain Shillong’s attacking movements. Defender Seila Toure was particularly influential, organising the backline and making several important interventions.

Chanmari came close to opening the scoring in the 21st minute. Lalthanzuala produced an impressive run down the right flank before seeing his effort crash against the woodwork.

The breakthrough arrived just three minutes later, albeit through an unfortunate incident for the home side. R Ramdinthara sent a lofted pass towards Gabriel Ferriera Paz, who moved forward to meet the delivery. In an attempt to prevent the danger, Shillong defender Joedson dos Santos inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Chanmari a 1-0 advantage.

Shillong Lajong responded by stepping up their attacking efforts. Damaitphang Lyngdoh forced an important save from Zothanmawia in the 31st minute, while Everbrightson Sana came close to finding the target shortly afterwards.

The hosts continued searching for an equaliser before the interval, but Chanmari remained compact and disciplined at the back. Jota had another opportunity during first-half stoppage time, only for Seila Toure to make a crucial goal-line intervention.

Chanmari therefore headed into the dressing room with a narrow 1-0 lead.

Abelson Jachi Changes the Game as Shillong Lajong Fight Back

Shillong returned for the second half with renewed attacking intent, looking to put greater pressure on the Chanmari defence. However, the visitors continued to frustrate the hosts through their organised defensive structure.

The introduction of Abelson Jachi provided Shillong with additional attacking energy, particularly down the right flank. His pace and willingness to take on defenders helped the home side create more opportunities.

Chanmari also threatened to extend their advantage in the 63rd minute. Aron Vanlalrinchhana and Guite Vanlalpeka combined effectively, with the latter managing an attempt that went wide.

Shillong responded almost immediately. Jachi delivered a dangerous ball into the penalty area in the 65th minute, but Sana could not direct his header on target.

The hosts came particularly close to equalising seven minutes later. After Jachi slipped during an attacking move, Joedson dos Santos pushed forward and unleashed an effort that struck the near post, leaving Shillong agonisingly close to restoring parity.

The sustained pressure finally produced the breakthrough in the 78th minute.

Kenstar Kharshong delivered a cross from the left, with Seila Toure attempting to clear the danger. However, the ball fell into Jachi’s path inside the penalty area. The substitute showed excellent composure before finding the back of the net with a precise finish to make it 1-1.

Points Shared After Entertaining Northeast Derby

The equaliser brought renewed energy to the contest, with both teams pushing forward in search of a late winner. Shillong looked to complete their comeback in front of their home supporters, while Chanmari attempted to regain the advantage.

Despite the attacking intent from both sides, neither team managed to find another goal before the final whistle.

The result means Shillong Lajong FC maintained their unbeaten start to the IFL 2026-27 campaign after their opening-match victory, while Chanmari FC began their league journey with a valuable away point.

For Shillong, Jachi’s late contribution ensured that their first home appearance of the season did not end in defeat. Chanmari, meanwhile, will take confidence from a disciplined performance against one of the league’s established sides.

Both teams had their opportunities, but neither could secure all three points as the Northeast derby ended in a 1-1 stalemate.