Shillong, May 28: Expectations will be high at the SSA Stadium on Friday evening when Nongkseh SSCC take on Rymbai Shkenshynriah SC in the first semifinal of the 5th Meghalaya State League (MSL 5). The winner of the much-anticipated clash will secure a place in the final, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm.
Nongkseh entered the semifinals after finishing on top of Group A in the quarterfinal league stage, while Shkenshynriah progressed as runners-up from Group B. The East Jaintia Hills outfit will be aiming to go one step further this season after falling short in the semifinals of MSL 4, where they suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Shillong Lajong FC.
Several experienced players from that previous campaign continue to form the backbone of the Shkenshynriah squad, including Skilful Tariang, Hesmiki Rymbai, Niwan-o Bareh and Jeremy Nongtdu. Their performances this season have once again highlighted the club’s ability to compete against some of the strongest sides in Meghalaya football.
Shkenshynriah also stand out as the only semifinalist not based in Shillong, underlining the wider reach and growing competitiveness encouraged by the Meghalaya State League, which is organised by the Meghalaya Football Association with support from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs.
The club topped Group D during the preliminary stage before defeating Amlarem SC in the Round of 16. In the quarterfinal league stage, Shkenshynriah faced a difficult challenge against Langsning FC, losing both encounters, but victories over Nangkiew Irat SC and Maram FC ensured their passage into the semifinals.
Nongkseh, meanwhile, have enjoyed a remarkable campaign in what is their debut appearance in the MSL. Although the club itself is new to the competition, many of its players possess experience from higher levels of football, including the Indian Football League. Since assembling a strong squad in 2025, Nongkseh have remained unbeaten and established themselves as one of the tournament favourites.
Players such as Hardy Cliff Nongbri, Shano Tariang, Sheen Sohktung and Chesterpaul Lyngdoh have played key roles in the club’s success, while the team’s depth and consistency have made them formidable opponents throughout the season.
Nongkseh are the only unbeaten side left in the competition, though they have been held to three draws. Backed by strong support from their passionate fans, the Shillong-based club will head into the semifinal as favourites.
However, the Meghalaya State League has produced several surprises over the years, and Shkenshynriah will be hoping to add another upset to that list. Nongkseh, on the other hand, will be wary of complacency as they seek to keep their impressive run alive and book a place in the final.
Tickets for the semifinal will be available at the venue, priced between Rs 100 and Rs 300. Organisers have urged spectators not to carry water bottles, dangerous materials, weapons, illegal substances or any prohibited items into the stadium. Smoking and consumption of alcohol inside the venue will also not be permitted.
