Shillong, September 1: Meghalaya began their campaign in the Junior Boys National Football Championship 2026–27 (Tier 1) for the Dr BC Roy Trophy on a winning note, defeating Tamil Nadu 2–1 in their opening Group C match in Bengaluru on Tuesday.

Adriel B Nongbet gave Meghalaya an early lead in the fourth minute. Meeting a cross from the left flank, Nongbet stretched out his right boot to connect with the ball, which dipped beyond the reach of the Tamil Nadu goalkeeper.

Meghalaya doubled their advantage just before half-time when Aiborlang Mulieh scored in the third minute of added time at the end of the first half.

Tamil Nadu reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute through Rohin G, who had come on as a second-half substitute just seven minutes earlier. Meghalaya, however, held firm in the closing stages to secure all three points.

Meghalaya will next take on Maharashtra on Thursday at 11am. Maharashtra went down 2–0 to Mizoram in the other Group C match played earlier on Tuesday.

Only the group winners will advance to the semi-finals.

Meghalaya squad: Alvin Kharbani (GK), Shanborlang Khongjee, Franky Kharkrang, Samuel Malieh, Wallambok Thongni, Pyrkhatlang Marbaniang (Seibok Lyngdoh 61′), Andrew Kharsati (Mallenga N Sangma 90’+2), Aibannangkhraw Kharumnuid, Adriel B Nongbet (Kishan Wahlang 72′), Aiborlang Mulieh (Sannaky Nongsiej 61′), Habankhlur Lyngdoh Mawnai.