Shillong, Apr 1: Excitement is building among Meghalaya’s football fans as the fifth edition of the Meghalaya State League (MSL 5) is set to kick off on April 11.
This year’s edition will be the biggest in the tournament’s history, featuring 33 teams divided into eight groups for the first stage. However, the final number of მონაწილating teams remains subject to completion of pre-tournament formalities.
The league, conceptualised by the Meghalaya Football Association (MFA), has been supported by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, since its inception in 2017. It brings together top clubs from affiliated district associations to compete for the title of Champions of Meghalaya. This year’s tournament is particularly special as it coincides with the MFA’s year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Defending champions Mawlai SC, winners of MSL 4 in 2024, have been placed in Group C alongside Amlarem SC, Lamin XI SCC and Laskein SCCC. Matches in this group will be held in Amlarem.
The opening match will take place at the SSA Stadium in Shillong, featuring Group A teams Nongkseh SSCC, Mawshun SCC, Khimusniang SC and Umkaber SCC.
Shillong will also host Group B matches at the MFA Turf, with teams including Nangkiew Irat SC, Mulang SC Nongbah, Mawlum Tyrsad SCC and Mawphu SC.
Group D, to be played in Khliehriat, includes two semifinalists from the previous edition—Ladthadlaboh SC and Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC—alongside Thangskai Tiger SC and Jalaphet Moochut Pyrdung SC.
Group E matches will be held in Wahiajer, the venue of the 2024 final, and feature last year’s runners-up Shillong Lajong FC, along with Lumphyrnai Lumsohphoh FC, Iatyllilang Lumsehkot SCC and Lamyrsiang SCC.
Mairang will host Group F, comprising Langsning FC, Mission SCC, Umlakro FC and Lawbah SC.
Group G, the largest with five teams, will be played in Williamnagar and includes A’chik SCO, Atong Matgrik FC, Maram FC, Balmanduri FC and Janepih Youth SCA.
Finally, Group H in Mawkyrwat features 2023 champions Rangdajied United FC, along with Mawten SC, Mawlarshong SC and Umdang SC.
Over its four previous editions, the MSL has significantly raised the standard of football across Meghalaya, offering players and clubs a prestigious platform to showcase their talent. With more teams, wider participation and heightened competition, MSL 5 promises to be the most exciting edition yet.
