The 2nd Open Football Tournament 2022 organised by Dimapur District Football Referee Association (DDFRA) kicked off at DDSC Stadium on 6th September. The opening ceremony was graced by Shri. Mughato Aye, President of Dimapur District Football Association, as the special guest and Shri. Tito Yepthomi, president of Dimapur District Auto Drivers’ Union as Guest of Honour.

Mughato Aye, in his speech, said that Nagaland Football is slowly changing and that a new team is working hard to assist players so that their hard work and talent are rewarded. He proudly proclaimed that some footballers from the state are even playing in different states of India in the big leagues. Aye said that he sees a bright future for Nagaland Football Association as it’s getting bigger and better and hoped that Nagaland Premier League would be revealed by next year. He encouraged the players not to dream about just playing in Nagaland but to have bigger ambitions to play in bigger leagues.

The inaugural programme began with invocation delivered by Imnatoshi Longkumer, Associate Pastor Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo. The welcome address was given by Vikato Assumi, Vice President DDFRA, followed by a special performance by Chanchithung B. Humtsoe. The opening match was played between Meriema Village Youth Kohima (MVYK) emerged victorious over and Rebels FC.

A total of 15 teams will be participating in the tournament. The final match is scheduled to be played on 17 September.