Shillong, July 23: The Shillong Premier League 2026 kicks off on Saturday, with defending champions Langsning opening their title defence against Sawmer at 4:45pm.
The Shillong Sports Association has released dates for the first seven fixtures. The rest of the schedule will be confirmed after accounting for Durand Cup 2026 commitments.
This year’s SPL is generating the most buzz in recent memory, largely due to the rise of Nongkseh. Promoted after winning the 2025 First Division with 9 straight wins, Nongkseh went on to claim the SSA Champions Cup, Sikkim Gold Cup and the 5th Meghalaya State League — all without losing a single match. That run has installed them as early favourites.
But the chase pack is strong. Langsning staged a stunning comeback last season, climbing from 4th after Round 5 to lift their third SPL title. They also reached the MSL final, losing 2-1 to Nongkseh.
Five-time winners Shillong Lajong and two-time champions Mawlai were in the hunt in 2025 but faltered late. Lajong impressed in the Champions Cup and MSL, while Mawlai, though the lightest on paper, remain dangerous.
Rangdajied United, champions in 2013 and record 7-time runners-up, finished 6th last year but were Super Cup runners-up to Lajong. With a squad full of youngsters, they are expected to challenge again.
Meghalaya Police return to the SPL after finishing 2nd in the First Division last year. Whether their planned reinforcements materialised remains to be seen.
Also in the mix are Nangkiew Irat, who faded to 4th after a strong title push last season, Mylliem, Sawmer and Laitkor. All four have the potential to cause upsets.
With a single-leg format again, every point will count. With squads strengthened and ambitions high, SPL 2026 promises to be the most competitive yet.
