Shillong, November 6: Shillong Lajong FC salvaged a crucial point in their first home fixture of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026–27 season, drawing 1-1 against Chanmari FC at the SSA Stadium. A late equalizer from substitute Abelson Jachi in the 78th minute canceled out an unfortunate own goal by Shillong defender Joedson dos Santos earlier in the 24th minute.

Chanmari FC, playing their inaugural match of the campaign, displayed an organized approach from the whistle. Shillong Lajong, fresh off a season-opening victory, aimed to leverage their home advantage but found themselves trailing after a defensive mix-up. Despite an early flurry of attacks from Lajong, including effective plays from Ephraim HC and Figo Syndai, Chanmari's goalkeeper Zothanmawia proved to be a formidable barrier.

The visitors nearly took the lead in the 21st minute when Lalthanzuala's shot struck the woodwork, only for an own goal to hand them the lead moments later. R Ramdinthara's lofted ball intended for Gabriel Ferriera Paz was inadvertently turned into his own net by Dos Santos.

Shillong intensified their attacks in the second half. After several close calls, including a shot from Joedson dos Santos hitting the post, the pressure finally paid off. Kenstar Kharshong's cross found Jachi, who calmly slotted the ball home to level the score. Both teams pushed for a winner in the dying minutes, but the Northeast derby ended in a hard-fought draw, with both sides earning a valuable point.

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