“Playing In Front of Such Passionate Fans Was Special” – Hardy Nongbri

Shillong Lajong FC, on Saturday, created history by qualifying for their first ever quarter-finals of the Durand Cup. Shillong was selected as one of the hosts of the 133^rd Indian Oil Durand Cup and the home side topped Group F after playing out a 1-1 draw against FC Goa in their final group game to secure their spot in the quarter final. The Reds will face Emami East Bengal FC on 21^st of August at the JN Stadium in the much anticipated quarter final. 

Speaking about the milestone, Shillong Lajong’s captain Hardy Cliff Nongbri said, ”Reaching the quarter-finals of the Durand Cup is a major achievement, since, it’s the first time that our team, Shillong Lajong, has advanced this far in this prestigious tournament. It also boosts our confidence and motivates us to push further. Looking ahead, we’re eager to maintain our focus and we are ready and  fight the upcoming challenges with determination.”

On the other hand, head coach Carlos Hevia was happy to see improvement in his boys with every match and said, “Everyone is very happy and glad not only to qualify for the quarter-final, but also because of the improvement in the game and the good consistency of the team even in the bad moments during the match against FC Goa.”

A record 14248 fans crowded the JN Stadium on Saturday when The Reds played out a draw against FC Goa and the throughout the game, the entire stadium echoed with the popular Khasi chant “Hoi Kiw”. Speaking about the unwavering support, captain Hardy said, “Playing in front of such passionate fans during our final group game was very special. I want to thank all our fans for their unconditional love and support. Their energy and support created an atmosphere that lifted the team’s spirits. Hearing their cheers and seeing their excitement made us feel connected and it really motivated us to perform at our best. As we move into the quarter-finals, we invite all our supporters to join us once more on the 21st of August 2024 for our next game. Your continued support is vital and will help drive us forward in this crucial match.”

“I felt overwhelmed with the amazing atmosphere and support the fans showed throughout the match and they helped us to keep our outstanding performance level in the second half,” said coach Hevia on the fans’ support.

In the second quarter-final of the tournament, home side Shillong Lajong will have to overcome the challenge of mighty Emami East Bengal FC to book their place in the semi-finals. “Playing against the strong Emami East Bengal side in the quarter-final is a big challenge, so we are preparing thoroughly. We know their reputation, and they have a very good squad with good coach. So, we have to be confident and focus both mentally and physically. And we are working on staying positive and sticking to our game plan,” captain Hardy said. 

Coach Hevia on the other hand wants to doesn’t want to lose the identity his team carries while facing a strong side in East Bengal. “We have been analysing the game idea and performances of East Bengal in the matches they have played so far and planning our training system accordingly. We are “moving the pieces” to have all the chances to cancel the offensive game of East Bengal and to have all the options of scoring, but without losing our “identity” of playing with high intensity, quick movements of the ball, quick attacks that can make them to feel very uncomfortable throughout the match.”