Longterok Football Club defeated 27 United FC 2-1 to secure a spot in the title race on Monday in front of over 2000 people spectators in the first playoff match of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) at Chumoukedima Football Stadium.
The match kicked off with 27 United creating several early chances but failing to capitalize. On the other hand, Longterok’s first real opportunity came from a corner kick. The quickly taken set piece found a flying header, but the attempt went off target.
Longterok also received a golden opportunity in the 21st minute, but a goal-line clearance from 27 United’s keeper denied them the lead. Two minutes later, Longterok found the net, only for the referee to disallow the goal due to a foul on the keeper.
27 United came close to scoring in the 35th minute when Ngangsang Phom found himself in a one-on-one situation against the goalkeeper. His shot struck the goalpost, and his follow-up header was saved by the keeper.
Minutes later, Longterok faced a brief setback when their captain had to be stretchered off due to an injury. Playing one man down, they were however awarded a penalty in the 38th minute, and Manton Konyak (11) confidently converted, putting his team ahead. Minutes later, 27 United had a chance to equalize from a free kick outside the penalty box but missed the target.
However, in the 43rd minute, they were awarded a penalty, which their captain Jangjagin Kuki (10) converted, levelling the score at 1-1.
The second half began with Longterok pressing high and setting up crosses and threatening the defence line.
In the 50th minute, a cross from the right flank was cleared for a corner. From the ensuing set piece, Manton Konyak (11) rose above the defense and scored another goal through a stunning header, reclaiming the lead for Longterok.
27 United’s best second-half chance came in the 77th minute from a long-range effort that forced the keeper into a diving save, resulting in a corner. As the clock ticked down, 27 United earned a free kick just outside the penalty box.
The shot was brilliantly aimed for the top left corner, but Longterok’s goalkeeper made a spectacular save. A 27 United player pounced on the rebound with a header, but once again, the keeper was up to the task to deny the goal.
In additional time, 27 United had one final opportunity from a well-placed free kick into the penalty area, but the goalkeeper punched it away. Amid the clearance, a 27 United player went down inside the box, prompting calls for a penalty, but the referee and linesman waved play on.
With the intensity of the game soaring high and frustrated over the referees’ decision, 27 United official and several benched players entered the pitch, earning a yellow card and temporarily halting the game.
Longterok’s goalkeeper I. Kumzuk (1) was named Man of the Match. With this win, Longterok FC moves one step closer to the NSL title, and would be battling against either Barak Football Club or Nagaland United Sports Club.
After the match, a medal ceremony was held for players and officials of 27 United FC, who ended the NSL first season in the fourth position.
Metsübo and Hekani grace inaugural playoffs
Addressing the gathering as the special guest before the kick off, Minister RD, SIRD, Metsübo Jamir, highlighted the deep-rooted connection between football and the Naga people, and expressed gratitude to the NSL organizing committee.
He hoped the league would continue to grow in the years to come. Pointing that football creates bonds that transcend districts, forming lifelong friendships among players and teams, he remarked on the friendship and bonds created among the players of each club.
Jamir also emphasized NSL as an effort to foster unity among Nagas. He expressed optimism that more teams would participate in future editions and other sports disciplines would also gain momentum in the state. He further acknowledged chief minister Neiphiu Rio’s visionary leadership in promoting sports and youth development.
Also delivering a short speech as the honored guest, advisor for Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, congratulated the NSL management team for organizing the tournament.
She said Indian football is evolving and Nagaland has potential to make a mark on national and international stage. Recalling the legacy of Dr. T. Ao, she encouraged young Naga footballers to aspire for greatness. “The same Naga blood runs within us. It is never too late—this is the time for our youth to step up and make a difference” she said.
Jakhalu later stressed the importance of fan engagement and corporate sponsorship in sustaining the growth of sports, and expressed thanks to all stakeholders for their support and expressed hope that NSL would further unite the people of Nagaland.