Kohima: The inaugural edition of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) has been overshadowed by controversy following a last-minute rescheduling of key final-league round matches ahead of the playoffs.
The controversy erupted after the NSL governing body announced on Tuesday evening the sudden rescheduling of three matches: Match No. 40 between Frontier Warriors FC and 27 United FC in Kohima, Match No. 41 featuring Barak FC and Red Scars FC in Chümoukedima, and Match No. 42 between Sechü Zubza FC and Longterok FC in Kohima. The decision, made just a day before the scheduled fixtures, has drawn criticism from the affected clubs.
While the NSL governing body cited “the interest of maintaining a competitive balance in the league, ensuring a level playing field, fair play, and sportsmanship”, several clubs have expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that the move compromised the integrity of the competition.
Among the vocal critics were Sechü Zubza FC (SZFC) and Longterok FC. Their match in Kohima, originally scheduled for 5:00 PM, was rescheduled to 2:00 PM. The teams claimed they were not officially notified and only discovered the alterations via social media.
Due to protests from both teams, the match was delayed for over an hour before it eventually commenced at 3:30 PM. The second match of the day, which had been rescheduled from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, was further moved to 6:30 PM due to this delay.
During the post-match presser, Longterok FC officials questioned the motives behind the sudden fixture changes, stating that the rescheduling forced the team, which was camping in Dimapur, to advance its arrival in Kohima.
The team’s coach alleged that the NSL was being politicised, stating that the abrupt change caused both physical and mental strain on the players. He added that the team was left “disturbed” by the rescheduling.
“This is disappointing. We are trying our best. If this continues to happen, Nagaland football may not progress,” said the coach.
A Sechü Zubza FC official argued that if fairness was truly the intent, all three matches should have been played simultaneously to prevent any possibility of manipulation.
“You can drag us down, but you should not kill the spirit of football. It discourages those investing their time, money, and effort into the sport. If such manipulation continues, the NSL may struggle to sustain for long,” the official added.
Furthermore, clubs have accused the NSL governing body of violating All India Football Federation (AIFF) guidelines, which mandate that rescheduling of matches must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance. The clubs condemned the governing body’s decision, which was reportedly issued post-6:00 PM on the eve of the matches.
Adding to the controversy, claims have emerged that certain players—particularly government employees from a specific club—were granted extended leave to participate in the league, while similar privileges were denied to others. However, EastMojo could not independently verify this claim.
Despite the chaos, Sechü Zubza FC managed to defeat Longterok FC 1-0 in Match No. 42, held at IG Stadium in Kohima. The game saw an early breakthrough when forward Limakumzak Ao scored in the 10th minute. Longterok FC pushed for an equalizer, with their U-20 player Arap creating several key opportunities, but Sechü Zubza’s defense remained resilient. Despite a dominant second-half performance by Longterok, their finishing lacked precision, and Sechü Zubza held onto their lead until the final whistle.
However, the victory was bittersweet, as Sechü Zubza FC was eliminated from playoff contention after 27 United FC secured a dramatic 3-2 win over Frontier Warriors FC in Match No. 40.
The 40th match of the NSL, played after Match No. 42, turned out to be a dramatic encounter. Despite being out of playoff contention, Frontier Warriors FC (FWFC) put up a fierce fight. They struck early, with U-20 player S. Ayen opening the scoring in the 16th minute. Just a minute later, midfielder Mugha doubled the lead, sending FWFC supporters into jubilation.
27 United FC, however, responded swiftly, with forward Nokwang pulling one back in the 23rd minute. The match became increasingly physical, with high-intensity clashes leading to three yellow cards by the 35th minute. A brief scuffle between players forced referee Mechievilie Yashü to intervene and restore order.
As the game progressed, 27 United captain Jangjagin scored a stunning equalizer in the 88th minute, setting up a tense finish. With six minutes of added time, both teams scrambled for a winner. In the 90+3rd minute, FWFC substitute defender Manpu inadvertently scored an own goal, handing 27 United a crucial victory.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, FWFC’s S. Ayen was named ‘Man of the Match’ for his stellar performance, with the award presented by KDFA president Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome.
Following the win, the 27 United FC coach stated that the rescheduling of the matches did not serve as an advantage, as the team was prepared to take on the challenge when they received the information. FWFC officials refused to speak to the media after their loss.
The controversy surrounding the NSL’s inaugural edition has cast a shadow over what was intended to be a landmark moment for Nagaland football.
Also Read: Have barely scratched the surface of Arunachal’s biodiversity: Researchers
You just read a story that took days to report. Help us keep our reporters on the ground in the Northeast.
Ad-free reading, support and keep important stories alive
Support once (any amount)
Scan to pay via UPI