Real Kashmir vs Shillong Lajong: Match Preview, Details, Prediction, and Facts

The much-anticipated clash between Real Kashmir vs Shillong Lajong in the I-League is set to take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Soccer fans across India and beyond are eagerly awaiting this match, promising a thrilling showdown at the TRC Polo Synthetic Turf Ground in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. With both teams striving to climb the league table, the stakes are high, making this game one to watch.

Match Details

• Fixture: Real Kashmir vs Shillong Lajong
• Date: February 2, 2025
• Time: 08:30 UTC / 2 PM IST
• Venue: TRC Polo Synthetic Turf Ground, Srinagar
• Competition: I-League, Round 12

Both teams have had mixed form coming into this match. Real Kashmir, playing on home turf, will look to utilize their local advantage, while Shillong Lajong hopes to carry forward recent momentum from their away performances.

Preview

Looking at the head-to-head statistics, Real Kashmir holds an edge over Shillong Lajong. Out of their last five meetings, Real Kashmir has clinched victory three times, with Shillong Lajong winning once and one match ending in a draw. However, Shillong Lajong did get the better of Real Kashmir earlier this year in a narrow 1-0 win. This adds an interesting twist as the two teams face off again.

Real Kashmir, currently sitting seventh on the league table (16 points from 11 games), has shown spirit at home, avoiding losses in their last five home fixtures. Shillong Lajong, placed sixth (also with 16 points but with a better goal difference), has been formidable in attack, scoring a whopping 27 goals so far this season.

Team Form

• Real Kashmir: The team has won two, drawn one, and lost two of their last five matches. Recently, they suffered a tough 3-1 loss to league leaders Churchill Brothers, but they bounced back with a 2-0 win against Dempo.
• Shillong Lajong: Shillong Lajong has displayed an unpredictable form, with a mix of high-scoring wins and defeats. Their last game—a 3-1 win over Aizawl—showcased their attacking prowess.

Possible Lineups

Real Kashmir

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Players: Aaron Samb, M. Arbaz, and K. Issah
• Expected XI: M. Arbaz (GK), H. Yousuf, P. Singh, M. Hammad, O. Idan, L. Ramsanga, K. Issah, M. Aqib, A. Samb, Dos Santos, M. Inam

Shillong Lajong

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Players: Renan Paulino, Douglas Rosa, and Figo Syndai
• Expected XI: R. Sarkar (GK), S. Khongsit, Gonçalves, P. Buam, H. Nongbri, G. Kharbuli, A. Ahlawat, K. Kharshong, R. Paulino, D. Rosa, F. Syndai

Match Predictions

Given their home-ground advantage and solid recent form, Real Kashmir is considered the favorite for this game. Shillong Lajong, however, should not be underestimated as their offense has been in dazzling form, scoring big in several recent matches. Predictably, this could be a high-scoring contest.

Experts estimate the match may end with a scoreline of 3-1 in favor of Real Kashmir. Over 2.5 goals seem likely, thanks to the attacking strength of both teams.

Facts and Stats

• Real Kashmir has won 3 of their last 5 meetings with Shillong Lajong, scoring 11 goals in the process.
• Shillong Lajong has scored 22% of their goals this season between the 31st and 45th minutes, making them dangerous in the first half.
• Real Kashmir has scored 23% of their goals between the 0-15 minute mark, showcasing strong starts.
• Shillong Lajong has scored the most goals (27) among teams in the bottom half of the table this season.

Final Thoughts

The clash between Real Kashmir vs Shillong Lajong promises excitement with both teams bringing unique strengths to the table. Real Kashmir’s defensive solidity and home advantage clash with Shillong Lajong’s attacking flair, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter. Fans can expect a match filled with goals, passionate play, and high drama as the I-League action heats up.