XI Brother will take on Nitsyan FC in the final of the Lotha Football Championship (LFC) 2025, which will be held on January 22 at the local ground in Wokha. The tournament is being organised by the Wokha District Football Association (WDFA).
In the first semifinal, XI Brother triumphed over Mount Morashen Club (MMC) with a commanding 6-0 victory. A hat-trick by Hatsabemo, with goals in the 15th, 45th, and 85th minutes, set the tone. Toka added two more goals in the 40th and 78th minutes, while Awangbo contributed a goal in the 26th minute to seal the comprehensive win.
The second semifinal provided a thrilling spectacle, with both teams displaying resilience and determination. Humtso SA dominated the first half, taking a 3-2 lead with a superb hat-trick from Lanchibemo, who scored in the 1st, 9th, and 24th minutes. However, Nitsyan FC mounted a strong comeback in the second half. After trailing 2-3, Yiben netted a hat-trick for Nitsyan FC, scoring in the 2nd, 34th, and 89th minutes.
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The decisive moment came in the 89th minute, when a penalty was awarded to Nitsyan FC after a dangerous foul on Yiben inside the box. He calmly converted the spot-kick, securing a 4-3 win and sending Nitsyan FC into the final.
The upcoming final is expected to be a thrilling contest, with Nitsyan FC, aiming to secure their first LFC title. On the other hand, the two-time consecutive champions, XI Brother, will be looking to defend their crown.
The final match will be graced by Achumbemo Kikon, MLA and Chairman of the SDPDB, Bhandari, who will be the special guest for the closing ceremony at 11 AM on Wednesday.
Referees from both the Kohima District Referee Board and Wokha District Referee Board are assisting in officiating the ongoing 14th LFC tournament.