The qualifying group stage of the 15th Lotha Football Championship came to a conclusion on February 3, at the public ground, Wokha, as the final day featured closely contested matches, late goals and emphatic victories.
In the opening match of the day, Airfield Colony FC and Star Madrid FC played out a gripping 2–2 draw. Star Madrid FC took early control of the contest with Mhabemo opening the scoring in the 30th minute, followed by Chumben’s goal in the 36th minute. Airfield Colony FC responded swiftly as Yanchibemo reduced the margin in the 38th minute. The match headed towards a Star Madrid win before Airfield Colony FC struck a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time (70+1) to share the points.
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The second fixture witnessed a strong comeback performance by Yon Sporting Club against Flamingo FC. Flamingo FC made a bright start, with Nitova scoring in the 5th minute. Yon Sporting Club, however, bounced back almost immediately through Sentisang, who equalised in the 7th minute. Sentisang added his second goal in the 47th minute, while Renpithung put the result beyond doubt with a late strike in the 69th minute, sealing a 3–1 victory.
The final match of the qualifying round drew a large crowd as Nitsüyan Yan FC faced Niro Range FC (NRFC). NRFC opened the scoring in the 21st minute through Zuthungo. Nitsu Yan FC dominated the second half, with Yiben Ezung netting twice in the 48th and 63rd minutes, the latter coming from a well-executed header off a corner. An own goal by NRFC in the 68th minute further tilted the game in Nitsüyan Yan FC’s favour, before Yhoto Lohe added another in stoppage time (70+1) to complete a convincing 4–1 win.
With the completion of the group stage, the championship now moves into the knockout phase. The first quarterfinal matches, scheduled for February 4, will see Friends Club take on Tsumang FC, while Nitsüyan Yan FC will face Flamingo FC.
