The much-anticipated Dr Talimeren Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–2026 is set to begin on November 22 at Chümoukedima. The announcement was made by Anthony Ngullie, NCS, Commissioner & Secretary, Youth Resources & Sports today.
Ngullie confirmed that preparations are in full swing for the prestigious national event.
Addressing media persons, he mentioned that this year the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially named the tournament the Dr T Ao Junior National Girls’ Championship, paying tribute to the legendary Dr T Ao, the first captain of the Indian football team at the 1948 Olympics. The renaming honours his legacy and celebrates his immense contribution to Indian football, he noted.
According to officials, many participating teams are expected to arrive shortly, with several teams already reaching the venue. The event is projected to witness strong competition and wide participation from across the country.
Ngullie also highlighted that the Department of Youth Resources & Sports would be collaborating with the Nagaland Football Association to ensure the championship’s smooth and successful conduct. He added that multiple committees have been formed to oversee logistics, hospitality, and other essential arrangements for both the teams and the tournament.
Director of Youth Resources & Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose, NCS, announced that preparations for the Dr. Talimeren Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–2026 are progressing smoothly, with strong support from the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio.
Calling the championship “one major event the state is organising this time,” Sekhose expressed optimism that Nagaland will continue to host more national-level sporting events in the future.
According to the Director, 13 teams have registered for the tournament and have confirmed their arrival. Two to three teams have already reached Chümoukedima since 16 November. However, there was a slight delay in finalizing the fixture schedule as some teams had to withdraw due to difficulties in procuring train tickets to the state. Sekhose noted that such challenges should be resolved in the future to ensure smoother planning for similar tournaments.
He also informed that the 13 participating teams have been divided into four groups—A, B, C, and D. The Teams will first compete in league matches within their groups. The top teams will advance to the semifinals, and the final match is scheduled for 11 December at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium inside the Police Complex.
Sekhose mentioned that to ensure seamless organisation, the department has arranged accommodation for players in identified hotels and formed 17 different committees. He also added that the Steering Committee, headed by the Chief Minister and comprising members from the Cabinet and Police, will oversee the tournament. He also said that under the steering committee will be the Organising Committee, chaired by the Commissioner.
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Sekhose also added that additional committees have been set up to manage transportation, accommodation, catering, technical arrangements, and other essential responsibilities.
Sekhose appealed to the public to come and witness the matches, not only to support the home team but also to encourage players from across the country. He emphasized that women’s sports will play a defining role in shaping India’s sporting future, especially as the nation prepares for major global events.
“With India bidding for the 2036 Olympics and gearing up to host the Commonwealth Games, women’s sports will be crucial in bringing laurels to our country,” he said, adding that the state is committed to promoting and encouraging girls’ participation in sports.
President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), K Neibou Sekhose, announced that the upcoming Dr Talimeren Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–2026 marks a historic milestone—the first national-level football tournament ever hosted in Nagaland.
Calling it a proud moment for the state, Sekhose revealed that Nagaland is preparing to welcome 312 players from across the country. In addition, around 24 officials, including match commissioners and referee assistants, will be part of the championship.
He confirmed that the AIFF match commissioner and the deputy manager of the All India Football Federation have already arrived in Chümoukedima. Furthermore, an AIFF-appointed instructor had visited the state a week earlier to inspect and verify the facilities ahead of the event.
“This is the first time Nagaland is hosting a national tournament, especially in football,” Sekhose said, expressing confidence that the championship will set new standards for sports organisation in the state.
He added that the association is hopeful the event will be played in the highest competitive spirit, showcasing emerging football talent while elevating Nagaland’s standing in national sports.
Groups announced, fixtures finalised for the Championship
Chümoukedima, Nagaland:
The stage is set for the Dr. Talimeren Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship 2025–2026, with participating teams divided into four groups and match schedules confirmed.
Group Division
- Group A: Uttar Pradesh, Tripura
- Group B: Uttarakhand, Andaman & Nicobar, Punjab, Nagaland
- Group C: Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh
- Group D: Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh
The championship will also feature one qualified referee from Nagaland, Mechivielie Yashü, who will officiate during the tournament.
Opening Day Matches –November 22
The first match of the tournament will begin at 9 a.m. with Andaman & Nicobar facing Punjab.
For the opening ceremony, Uttarakhand will play against host state Nagaland.
The event will be graced by Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, who will attend as the Special Guest.
Tournament Schedule
- Duration: November 22–December 11, 2025
- Total match days: 14 (with breaks in between)
- League phase: Two matches will be played each day
Age Category
The tournament is being organised for players in the age group above 30 and below 60 years.
