Barak Football Club etched its name in Nagaland football history by clinching the inaugural Nagaland Super League (NSL) trophy with a commanding 3-1 victory over Longterok Football Club in a thrilling final at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
The much-anticipated showdown saw a fully packed stadium, with not a single empty seat in sight. Online tickets were sold out days before the final, and eager supporters lined up as early as noon, hoping to secure physical tickets at the counter. The electrifying atmosphere set the perfect stage for an intense battle between two of the best teams in the league.
From the opening whistle, Barak FC took control, dominating possession and putting early pressure on Longterok’s defense. Their star striker, Toka (Jersey 20), found himself in a promising position in the opening minutes, but a timely interception from a Longterok defender defused the threat.
Longterok FC, known for their counterattacking ability, responded with a well-crafted move that nearly resulted in a goal. Manton (Jersey 11) came close to breaking the deadlock with a long-range strike that flew just inches over the crossbar. Despite several opportunities from both sides, the first half ended goalless, with neither team managing to capitalize on their chances.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 52nd minute when Mangkholen (Jersey 44) found the back of the net with a well-placed shot, sending the Barak FC supporters into a frenzy. The momentum shifted in Barak’s favor as they continued to press forward with relentless attacks.
Longterok FC, determined to fight back, saw captain K. Assumi (Jersey 9) lead several offensive plays. However, Barak’s defensive line held firm, denying Longterok any clear goal-scoring opportunities. Their resilience paid off in the 65th minute when Toka (Jersey 20) doubled Barak’s lead with a clinical finish, further strengthening their grip on the match.
As Longterok searched desperately for a way back, Barak sealed their victory in the closing moments. Substitute Lun Kuki (Jersey 66), who had just been brought onto the pitch, scored the third goal for Barak FC, all but confirming their historic triumph.
Despite trailing 3-0, Longterok FC refused to back down. Their efforts were finally rewarded in the 95th minute when captain K. Assumi pulled one back, making the final score 3-1. However, it was too little too late, as the referee blew the final whistle, signaling the end of the match and crowning Barak FC as the first-ever NSL champions.
At the final whistle, emotions ran high as Barak FC players collapsed to the ground in sheer joy, while Longterok FC players were left devastated. In a true display of sportsmanship, Barak players consoled their Longterok counterparts, acknowledging their hard-fought journey to the final.
The Man of the Match award was given to Kenumdi (Jersey 23) of Barak FC for his outstanding performance throughout the game. As Barak FC lifted the prestigious NSL trophy, their supporters erupted in chants of “Barak FC Ringteilo” (Long Live Barak FC).
With this victory, Barak FC not only secured the inaugural NSL title but also earned a historic opportunity to represent Nagaland in the I-League qualifiers, marking the beginning of a new era for football in the state. Their success has set the stage for future competitions, inspiring young footballers across Nagaland to dream big and aim high.