Shillong, July 24 : Defending champions Langsning will face Sawmer in the opening match of the Shillong Premier League 2026 at the SSA Stadium, Polo, on Saturday at 4:45pm.
Langsning enter the season on a high after finishing runners-up in the 5th Meghalaya State League in June. The club is also preparing for its debut in the Durand Cup next month and has added 10 new players to its squad.
The biggest signing is midfielder Samuel L Kynshi, an Asian Games footballer with previous stints at Shillong Lajong, Mawlai SC, Punjab FC, Real Kashmir and most recently Gokulam Kerala. FC Bengaluru United duo Allen Lyngdoh Nongbri and Syed Ahmed also join, along with Richie Kharbani and Rohan Manar from Garhwal FC, Alex Manar from Meghalaya’s U-20 national team, and Monush Lapang, Mebanshngain Kurkalang, Wadajied Kynsai Ryngkhlem and Rituraj Boruah.
Sawmer finished sixth last season but have strengthened with Oresterwell Langshiang from Nongrim Hills, Raikutshisha Buam and Banteilang Lyngdoh from Nangkiew Irat, and Cannyson Kharnaior from Malki.
Langsning have won their last three SPL meetings against Sawmer. However, with the league to be played in a single-leg format this year, every match carries extra weight in the race for points and qualification to the SSA Super Cup, SSA Champions Cup and Meghalaya State League.
The SPL remains the premier football platform in the state and is expected to draw strong crowds as another competitive season gets underway.
