Nagaland has secured a spot in the final of the 50+ football category at the 7th National Masters Games 2025, currently underway in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The team defeated West Bengal in a thrilling semi-final encounter, clinching victory through a penalty shootout after both sides remained goalless in regular time.
Organised by the Master Games Association of Himachal Pradesh under the aegis of the Super Master Games & Sports Federation of India, the national-level event is being held from April 20 to 26, drawing veteran athletes from across the country.
Nagaland is participating in football under two categories—40+ and 50+—with a delegation of over 50 athletes representing the state under the Nagaland Masters Games Association (NMGA). The 50+ team, which has advanced to the final, is led by team manager Razouvituo Chatsu, Vice President of NMGA, and coach Mhao Lotha.
The 40+ team is currently playing league matches under the guidance of team manager Longshithung Patton and coach A. Ngangshiba Sangtam. Both teams are being led by Roko Angami, OSD to the Government of Nagaland and National Advisor of NMGA, along with Yambemo Humtsoe, General Secretary of NMGA.
In the group stage, Nagaland’s 50+ team was placed in Pool A with Assam (A) and West Bengal. Their semi-final win over West Bengal has secured them a place in the championship match. The second semi-final between Kerala and Assam (A) is scheduled to be played tomorrow morning, April 25. The winner of that match will face Nagaland in the final.
The tournament was officially inaugurated on April 20 by Rajesh Dharmani, Minister of Technical Education, Government of Himachal Pradesh, who attended the opening ceremony as chief guest. In his speech, Dharmani urged participants from all states to uphold the values of sportsmanship, unity, and friendly competition.