Former champions Dempo Sports Club delivered a spirited performance to clinch their first victory of the 2024-25 I-League season, defeating Shillong Lajong FC 2-0 at the SSA Stadium, Shillong on Saturday. Goals from Pruthvesh Pednekar and Matija Babović ensured the Goan giants returned home with three points and an unbeaten record after two matches.
The victory marked a turning point for Dempo, who had been held to a goalless draw in their opener against Aizawl FC. With this win, Samir Naik’s side sent a clear message of intent to the league, showcasing defensive resilience and clinical finishing in a tough away fixture.
Shillong Lajong, playing at home after their thrilling comeback against Churchill Brothers, looked to build on their momentum. However, they were unable to match Dempo’s discipline and precision, struggling to convert their opportunities into goals.
The match started with both teams testing each other cautiously. Lajong’s Damaitphang Lyngdoh came close in the opening half with a fierce strike, but Dempo goalkeeper Ashish Sibi produced a stunning save to deny the hosts an early lead. Despite creating chances, Lajong’s attack faltered, with Daniel Gonçalves missing a crucial opportunity to score.
Dempo maintained their compact defensive shape, soaking up pressure while waiting for their moment to strike. Just before halftime, Matija Babović almost found the breakthrough with a grounded shot, but Lajong’s goalkeeper Neithovilie Chalieu reacted quickly to keep the scoreline level.
The second half saw Dempo shift gears. Their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute when Pruthvesh Pednekar rose above the Lajong defence to head in a perfectly delivered corner from Cristián Damián Pérez. Chalieu got a hand to it but couldn’t stop the powerful effort, giving Dempo a well-deserved lead.
Lajong’s coach, José Hevia, responded with tactical substitutions, introducing Sheen Stevenson Sohktung to inject pace into their attack. While the changes added urgency, Dempo’s defensive unit stood firm, with Sibi once again denying a ferocious strike from Phrangki Buam.
In the dying moments, Dempo sealed the result in style. Babović, positioned on the right, unleashed a breathtaking swerving shot in the 91st minute that left Chalieu helpless and the home crowd stunned. The strike highlighted Babović’s technical brilliance and secured an unassailable lead for the visitors.
Dempo now sit comfortably in the standings, with four points from two matches and a growing sense of momentum. As fans rejoice in their unbeaten start, Samir Naik’s men look poised to build on this early success as they march forward in the competition.
