Federation Cup: Shillong Lajong set to battle Mohun Bagan in first semi-final

Northeastern powerhouse Shillong Lajong will look to continue their giant-killing act in the ongoing Federation Cup, when they take on Mohun Bagan in the first of their two-legged tie at the Barasat Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday, 7 May.

The Thangboi Singto-coached side pulled off a major upset earlier this week after knocking out East Bengal 4-3 on aggregate. Forward Uilliams scored the winning goal late in the second leg extra time to seal a famous win for the Reds.

The Shillong-based team, who had reached the final of the 2009-10 edition, will, however, be up against a formidable Mohun Bagan side, who are aiming to avoid a trophyless season by lifting the cup.

The Mariners had booked their semi-final place after knocking out Goan side Salgaocar with a comprehensive 7-2 aggregate victory.

Jeje and Sony Norde scored three and two goals, respectively, over the two legs, as Salgaocar went down without a fight.

In his pre-match media briefing, Lajong head coach Thangboi Singh hailed Mohun Bagan's attacking quartet of Cornell Glen, Katsumi Yusa, Sony Norde and Jeje. "They are good in all departments. But we have done well against them and will work hard," he added.

Singto's counterpart Sanjoy Sen warned his team against undermining the young Lajong side. "Shillong Lajong are a very good side. They got past East Bengal twice, and that it itself is a great achievement. We have to be careful since they possess the necessary players to hurt our chances."

The second leg of the tie is scheduled for 14 May at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.