Shillong, Dec 9: The SSA Champions Cup 2025 produced one of its most electrifying matches in recent memory tonight as Nongkseh defeated 10-man Langsning 4-3 in a tiebreaker after the first semifinal ended 2-2 following extra time at the SSA Stadium, Polo.

With the win, Nongkseh became the first team to book their place in the final, where they will face either Shillong Lajong or Meghalaya Police. The second semifinal between the two sides is scheduled for tomorrow at 4:30 PM at the same venue.

The dramatic encounter saw Langsning stun Nongkseh early by taking a two-goal lead inside 17 minutes, thanks to strikes from Donlad Diengdoh (3’) and Dajiedlang Wanshnong (17’). However, Nongkseh mounted an impressive comeback with goals from Mebankhraw Wahlang (21’) and Kynsaibor Lhuid (30’), bringing the score level within the first half hour.

Despite the intensity and several close attempts from both sides, the score remained unchanged through the second half and extra time. Langsning were reduced to 10 men after Apborlang Kurbah received a second yellow card. Nongkseh nearly sealed victory late in regulation time when Hardy Cliff Nongbri’s powerful free-kick rattled the crossbar.

In the penalty shootout, both goalkeepers — Daraphun Talang for Nongkseh and Rajat Paul Lyngdoh for Langsning — managed crucial saves, but Langsning’s final kick struck the crossbar, sealing victory for Nongkseh and setting off jubilant celebrations among their passionate supporters.

Kynsaibor was named Hello Meghalaya Player of the Match and received a memento and cash prize of ₹5,000, presented by Adviser to the Meghalaya Government, MLA M Ampareen Lyngdoh.

Tomorrow’s semifinal between Lajong (Group B toppers) and Meghalaya Police (Group A runners-up) promises another intense battle, with both teams unbeaten in the group stage and kick-off scheduled for 4:30 PM.