The inaugural Nagaland Open Women Football League cum Knockout Tournament 2023 concluded with an exhilarating final match that saw Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) Kohima emerge as the champions. The tournament, organized by the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, took place at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima.
In a stunning display of skill and teamwork, KISCE Kohima defeated Peren District Women Football Club (PDWFC) with an impressive scoreline of 6-0. The KISCE team showcased their dominance throughout the match, leaving no chance for PDWFC to counter their attacking prowess. Akhala and Neke were the standout performers for KISCE Kohima, each scoring two goals, while Imlimerenla and Chimmushe contributed with one goal each.
The champions, KISCE Kohima, were rewarded handsomely for their outstanding performance. They received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh along with a trophy and certificates as a token of their achievement. The runners-up, PDWFC, were awarded Rs 70,000 for their commendable efforts.
The semi-finalists, Football Association Phek District (FAPD) and Hilly Girls FC, were not left empty-handed either, as they received a prize of Rs 30,000 each for reaching the semi-finals. The 5th place team, Northern Angami Youth & Sports Association-C (NAYSA-C), were awarded Rs 10,000 for their participation. Individual winners were also recognized and rewarded with Rs 5,000 each for their exceptional performances.
In an exhibition match held earlier, Youth Resources & Sports XI triumphed over Nagaland Football Association with a score of 2-1, showcasing the overall talent present in the state.
Gracing the closing function, Nagaland Youth Resources & Sports Advisor S Keoshu Yimkhiung expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his visionary approach towards uplifting the youth of the state. He stated that the 1st Nagaland Open Women Football League marked the beginning of a new era of sports transformation in Nagaland. Yimkhiung emphasized the government’s commitment to explore and promote talented youths by providing them with opportunities in various fields. He also encouraged sports enthusiasts to prioritize their physical well-being, highlighting the importance of staying strong and healthy. “Successful individuals are those who make the most of their time,” he remarked.
Anthony Ngully, Secretary of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, expressed his hope for increased participation in the next edition of the tournament, aiming to build on the success and popularity of the inaugural event.
The closing ceremony included a vote of thanks by Megolhu Dolie, Additional Director of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, and a thanksgiving prayer by A Libonthung Yanthan, pastor of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church.
The individual awards recognized outstanding performers in various categories. Nyitsarho Nyusou from FAPD was awarded the title of Best Goalkeeper. Mhalo P. Mozhui from KISCE Kohima received the title of Most Promising Player. Neke. K from KISCE Kohima emerged as the Top Scorer with an impressive tally of 9 goals. The prestigious Player of the Tournament award was presented to Chimmushe from KISCE Kohima for her exceptional contributions throughout the tournament.
The 1st Nagaland Open Women Football League has set the stage for future sporting events in the state and has provided a platform for talented women footballers to showcase