From kickoff, Sameer Naik’s Golden Eagles pressed high, disrupting Shillong’s rhythm. The opener arrived swiftly in the 6th minute: a mishit clearance by Rudra Ved was volleyed home masterfully by Joseph with his left boot. Momentum swung further Dempo’s way at the 24th minute when Saish Bagkar’s cross deceived keeper Sivel Rimbai, deflecting off Hoble for 2-0.

Shillong rallied late in the first half, Frangki Buam’s header forcing a spectacular save from Ashish Sibi. Undeterred after the break, Dempo earned a penalty in the 53rd when Rimbai upended Bagkar. Owusu slotted it away confidently at the 55th, sealing a comfortable lead.

Desperate for a consolation, Shillong threw numbers forward, creating half-chances via set-pieces and subs, but Dempo’s defense held firm. In the final stages, Perez and Gutierrez spurned golden opportunities to extend the margin. With six points now, Dempo gain crucial momentum, while Shillong’s 11 points keep them mid-table, highlighting their conversion woes.