The Nagaland Super League (NSL) Matchday 4 was played between Frontier Warriors FC and Barak FC. Held on February 8, the Match was played at the IG Stadium, Kohima.

The Match Summary provided by the NSL media are as follows:

Match Summary

Frontier Warriors FC (FWFC) faced the league leaders, Barak FC, in what was expected to be a one-sided affair. However, FWFC put up a resilient fight against Barak FC, nearly causing an upset. Despite their efforts, Barak FC secured a narrow 3-2 victory, maintaining their position at the top of the table, while FWFC continues their search for a win.

First Half:

Barak FC started with high pressing, forcing an early mistake from FWFC. A free kick taken by Barak’s captain led to a rebound goal by Toka Achumi in the 5th minute, giving them the lead. FWFC responded well and equalized in the 31^st minute through Dangmei, who finished off a brilliant team move. However, Barak FC restored their lead in the 42^nd minute through Kevisanyu just before halftime.

Halftime Scoreline: FWFC 1-2 Barak FC

Second Half:

The second half saw FWFC making early substitutions and coming out with renewed energy. Their persistence paid off in the 75^th minute when Vishal equalized after a clever assist from Vinoto. FWFC gained momentum, pressing high and creating chances. However, in the 87th minute, substitute Joy Sana sealed the victory for Barak FC with a brilliant left-footed counterattack goal. Barak FC had a last-minute 1v1 chance with Laiwang, but Frontier Warriors’ goalkeeper made a crucial save to secure the three points. In the 92^nd minute, FWFC had a free kick, curling just off the post, narrowly missing an equalizer.

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Tactical Breakdown:

Frontier Warriors FC (FWFC):

• Showed significant improvement in ball possession and attacking movements.
• Defensive lapses, particularly in the first half, cost them crucial goals.
• Their midfield grew stronger as the game progressed, but the lack of finishing hurt them.
• Striker Vinato was silent for most of the game, struggling to break through Barak’s solid defense.

Barak FC:

• High pressing and quick transitions caused trouble for FWFC early on.
• Created multiple set-piece opportunities and capitalized on defensive errors.
• Their substitutes made a major impact, particularly Joy Sana, who scored the winning goal.
• Despite securing the win, they struggled defensively in the second half under FWFC’s pressure.

Player of the Match:

Kevisanyu (Captain, Barak FC)

A commanding presence in midfield and scored Barak FC’s crucial second goal just before halftime, ensuring his team maintained control of the match. His leadership and composure played a vital role in securing the win.

Next Fixtures:

• Frontier Warriors FC: Sechu Zubza FC | 12 FEB | IG STADIUM KOHIMA | 1:00 PM
• Barak FC: 27 United FC | 12 FEB | IG STADIUM KOHIMA | 4:00 PM

Conclusion:

Despite being bottom of the table, Frontier Warriors FC proved they could challenge the best. Their resilience gave Barak FC a tough time, and they were unlucky not to get a draw. Barak FC, while victorious, showed vulnerabilities in defense, which they need to address moving forward.