The inaugural match of the 1st Nagaland’s Open Women’s Football League and Knock-out tournament, organized by the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland, took place today at Kohima’s Indira Gandhi Stadium. Khelo India Centre (KIC) Kohima secured a resounding victory by defeating Football Association Phek District (FAPD) with a score of 5-0. Mhasekhonuo opened the scoring for KIC in the 10th minute, followed by Chimmushe’s goal in the 34th minute. Neke Konyak’s exceptional performance resulted in a hat-trick for KIC, with goals in the 55th, 61st, and 66th minute.
In the second match, Peren District Women FC defeated Northern Angami Youth & Sports Association-C (NAYSA-C) with a score of 5-2. Ruth scored the first goal for Peren District Women FC in the 3rd minute, while Krungi contributed two goals. Shangki and Ahoy also added a goal each for the team. Vizotunuo netted both goals for NAYSA-C in the 41st and 45th minute.
The tournament, which commenced today, will continue until July 1.
As the special guest at the inaugural function, Hekani Jakhalu Kense, Advisor for Industries & Commerce in Nagaland, emphasized the immense potential of sports as a billion-dollar industry. She commended the state government’s efforts in creating a healthy and conducive environment for the youth through sports. Hekani expressed her hope for increased support from the Chief Minister and the Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports to further promote sports in the state. Encouraging the young players to pursue sports as a profession, she emphasized the importance of bringing laurels to Nagaland and putting the state on the global sports map. Hekani also emphasized the valuable life lessons taught by sports, including leadership qualities, teamwork, perseverance, and focus. She urged the young athletes to remain determined and focused on their goals, despite the challenges they may face.
K. Neibou Sekhose, President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), announced that the inaugural edition of the Women Inter-District Football Championship will take place in October in Kohima. He commended the Department of Youth Resources & Sports for their initiative in promoting women’s football in the state. Sekhose acknowledged the availability of sufficient practice grounds, modern football equipment, and qualified coaches in Nagaland, urging the players to demonstrate strong determination and strive for excellence in their respective talents. He emphasized that achieving success requires going the extra mile, independent of clubs, associations, or government support. Sekhose encouraged the players to exhibit courage, work diligently, and remain committed to their goals.
The inaugural function was chaired by Kethosituo Sekhose, Director of Youth Resources & Sports. A special number was presented by Seyiekhonuo Yhome, while Vikhoto Zao, Associate Pastor of PCRC Kohima, invoked blessings for the event. Tournament Secretary Kevileibei Paphino administered the oath to the participating teams.