The Nagaland Super League (NSL) Playoff 3 was played at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium on 29th of March 2025 at 4:30 PM, promising an exhilarating football clash between Longterok FC and Nagaland United SC. Where, Longterok FC emerged victory with 1-0 to put them to the final to face off of Barak Fc.
The event was graced by Minister of Housing and Mechanical Engineering, Nagaland Bashangmongba Chang, as the special guest, and Advisor Department of Tribal Affairs & Election, H. Tovihoto Ayemi as the honoured guest. Chief Secretary Dr. J Alam, IAS and Director General of Police Rupin Sharma, were also present as special invitees.
Minister of Housing and Mechanical Engineering Bashangmongba Chang, in his speech highlighted the importance of sports in youth development and community building. He praised the organizers of the Nagaland Super League for their efforts in promoting football in the region. He emphasized the role of infrastructure development in supporting local athletes and reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing sports facilities across the state. His words were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, further energizing the atmosphere of the event.
The Minister also said that the league, a premier football tournament in Nagaland, has been instrumental in fostering young talent and promoting sportsmanship. In his address, Minister Chang emphasized the importance of sports in youth development and community building. He applauded the efforts of the organizers and players for their dedication and passion for the game. “Sports is not just about competition; it is about discipline, unity, and perseverance. Events like the Nagaland Super League play a crucial role in shaping the future of our athletes and providing them with a platform to shine,” he stated. He also highlighted the state government’s commitment to supporting sports infrastructure and development programs to nurture budding athletes. His speech was met with applause from the audience, reflecting the enthusiasm and support for sports in Nagaland.
Chief Secretary of Nagaland, Dr. J Alam, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Nagaland Super League (NSL) management team for their dedication and hard work in successfully organizing an event of such magnitude. Speaking at the event, Dr. Alam acknowledged the challenges involved in managing a sporting league of this scale and commended the team for their commitment to promoting sports in the state.
Dr. Alam also highlighted the significant investment Nagaland is making in sports infrastructure. He revealed that the state is currently implementing 50 sports projects, collectively valued at approximately Rs. 170 crore. These developments, he emphasized, are part of a broader effort to provide state-of-the-art facilities to nurture and support young sporting talent in Nagaland.
“All these efforts are for the young people of Nagaland,” Dr. Alam stated, stressing the government’s commitment to creating opportunities and unlocking the potential of local athletes. He expressed confidence that with continued investment and support, the NSL would expand further in the coming years, fostering a vibrant sports culture in the state.
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Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election of Nagaland, H. Tovihoto Ayemi, emphasized that The Nagaland Super League (NSL) has become the talk of the town, marking a historic moment for football in the state. He also noted that the event was a first-of-its-kind in the state, signifying a new era for Naga football. He described the league as more than just a competition, stating that it embodies the unifying spirit of the sport and has the potential to elevate Nagaland to a powerhouse in football at both national and international levels.
Ayemi also expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for his unwavering dedication to sports. He underscored the power of football in fostering unity, peace, and inspiration among the youth, highlighting the league’s role in bringing people together through their shared love for the game. The NSL has not only ignited excitement among football enthusiasts but has also established itself as a significant platform for young players to showcase their talent and aspire for greater achievements. With the right guidance and dedication, Nagaland is poised to make a mark in the national and international football scene, he stated.
Director General of Police Nagaland, Rupin Sharma, congratulated the NSL team for conceptualizing and successfully launching the league. He noted that the league is not only improving the standard of football in the state but also contributing to Nagaland’s economy in a new and positive direction. Sharma expressed confidence that the exposure gained through the NSL would help young Naga players refine their skills and prepare them for bigger opportunities in the sport.
He also hoped that some of the league’s talented players would eventually join the Nagaland Police football team, further strengthening the department’s commitment to promoting sports within the force.
The program was hosted by Advisor for the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, along with Chairman of NSL and General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), Benei M. Lamthiu, MLA. The master of ceremonies for the evening was Imilsen Pongen.
