Local football enthusiasts are set for a thrilling evening as Rangdajied United and Shillong Lajong face off in the final of the first-ever SSA Super Cup at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 pm, with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla attending as chief guest and guest of honour, underscoring the match’s significance for Meghalaya football. The two clubs share a fierce rivalry that has spanned more than a decade, with memorable encounters in the Shillong Premier League (SPL), Meghalaya State League (MSL), Durand Cup, and even the I-League during the 2013–14 season. While few current players were active during those early years, the competitive spirit between the clubs remains as intense as ever.
Shillong Lajong have held the upper hand in recent seasons, winning both SPL 2024 fixtures as well as matches in the MSL and Durand Cup. Their streak was broken earlier this year in a goalless SPL draw against Rangdajied on August 9, hinting at a shift in momentum. The SSA Super Cup, organised by the Shillong Sports Association, features the top six SPL 2025 teams in a knockout format. Lajong and Langsning earned direct semifinal entries, while Rangdajied and Mawlai advanced through playoffs. Rangdajied, who finished fifth in the SPL, stunned champions Langsning 2–0 in the semifinals, with Stephanson Pale scoring both goals. Lajong narrowly defeated Mawlai 1–0, aided by an own goal.
Rangdajied’s journey to the final is notable for their dramatic turnaround. From struggling near the relegation zone early in the SPL season, they ended with a four-match unbeaten run, carrying confidence into the Super Cup. Lajong, meanwhile, have been solid defensively, with goalkeeper Wanteilang Malngiang keeping six clean sheets in seven matches, though their attack has occasionally lacked spark.