The Dr. T. Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025–26 (Tier–2) commenced on November 22 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the special guest. In his address, Rio asserted that the occasion was a momentous occasion, not only because it marks the first time Nagaland is hosting a National Football tournament, but because it celebrates the unity, strength and spirit of Indian sports through the participation of talented young players from across the nation.
The chief minister said that the championship honoured Dr. Talimeren Ao, India’s first football captain at the 1948 London Olympics, who rose from humble beginnings to lead an independent India on the world stage. By renaming the Junior National Football Championship in his honour is a recognition of his legacy, made possible by the commitment and dedication of the state government and the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), Rio stated.
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He highlighted that beyond its symbolic significance, the championship stands as a celebration of the remarkable progress of women’s football in India. He noted that the growing strength, determination and confidence of young women athletes reflect a promising future for Indian sports. Their participation, he said, serves as a powerful reminder of the nation’s advancement toward equality, opportunity and empowerment.
He further stated that as India moves toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, sports will continue to play a crucial role in uniting people and shaping the country’s collective identity and that sports instil values such as teamwork, perseverance and discipline—qualities that rise above differences of region, language and culture, and strengthen the nation as one.
CM Rio said Nagaland views this as an opportunity to foster sporting excellence, develop infrastructure, and contribute to Indian sports, hoping it will attract more national and international events in the future.
Emphasising the larger purpose of the event, he maintained that the championship is far more than a competition but a platform of opportunity where dreams take shape, friendships are formed and future champions emerge. Every match, he said, tells a story of resilience, determination and the limitless potential of India’s youth.
Rio expressed appreciation to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for entrusting Nagaland with the honour of hosting the prestigious national championship. He said that as the tournament begins, it is an opportunity to celebrate not only the game of football but also the spirit of a diverse and vibrant India full of promise. He also expressed hope that the legacy of Dr. Talimeren Ao would continue to guide and inspire players both on and beyond the field.
MLA and advisor for Youth Resources and Sports, S Keoshu Yimkhiung welcomed all the participating teams, officials and dignitaries to the Dr. T. Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025–26 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
Underscoring the unifying power of football, the legislator noted that the tournament is not just a competition but a platform for young girls to showcase their talent, teamwork and passion for women’s sports at the national level. He encouraged the participants to play with discipline, respect and determination, valuing participation and learning as much as winning.
NFA president K Neibou Sekhose thanked the All India Football Federation for honouring Dr. T Ao and for choosing Nagaland to host this event. He also expressed his gratitude on behalf of the NFA to the Chief Minister for his constant support and leadership for promoting sports, particularly football in the State.
Sekhose encouraged the young players to inculcate the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play. Following this, the 13 participating teams were introduced, the flags were hoisted and the National Anthem was played, marking the formal opening of the Championship.
In the opening match of the tournament Punjab thrashed Andaman & Nicobar 20-0, while the second match between Nagaland and Uttarakhand saw the host team lose 1-3.
Fixture for November 23:
Himachal Pradesh Vs Madhya Pradesh (2:30 PM)
Maharashtra Vs Mizoram (6:30 PM)
