The much-anticipated Nagaland Super League (NSL) Playoff 2 is set to electrify football fans as Barak FC faces off against Nagaland United SC at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium on 26th March 2025. The event was graced by Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister for Women Resource Development & Horticulture as the special guest and H. Sethrongkyu Sangtam, Advisor for IT & Communication, Economics & Statistics, and Evaluation as the honoured guest.
Other distinguished attendees included Benei M. Lamthiu, Chairman of NSL and General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), and S. Keoshu Yimkhiung, Advisor for Youth Resources & Sports. The program was hosted by Ms. Imlisen Pongen as the Master of Ceremonies.
The event open with a welcome address by Benei M. Lamthiu, followed by speeches from H. Sethrongkyu Sangtam and Salhoutuonuo Kruse, highlighting the significance of the NSL in fostering sports and youth development in Nagaland.
Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse praised the Nagaland Super League for its role in youth empowerment and community development. She emphasized that beyond football, the league instils discipline, promotes health, and fosters unity and peace among young people. Recognizing the NSL as a crucial platform for nurturing talent, she reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sports as a tool for social progress.
Organized by the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) with support from the Nagaland Olympic Association and the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, the NSL has played a vital role in strengthening the state’s sports culture.
Advisor Sethrongkyu Sangtam highlighted the transformative impact of technology and data analytics in modern sports management. He stressed the importance of integrating advanced tech solutions and statistical analysis to enhance decision-making, improve athlete performance, and elevate the overall standard of sports in Nagaland.
Drawing parallels with the e-Naga Summit 2023, Sangtam underscored the link between governance, technology, and development, stating, “Technology plays a vital role in people’s lives, economic expansion, and societal progress.” He urged sports associations, coaches, and athletes to embrace innovation to remain competitive and drive the future of sports in Nagaland.
Ahead of the match, a felicitation ceremony took place, followed by an energizing warm-up session titled "Rise Up."
With sponsorships from Coca-Cola, Yukon Cement, Toyota, and Nagaland Post, the NSL Playoff 2 is shaping up to be a landmark event. The #TogetherWeSoar campaign continues to inspire young athletes, reinforcing the league’s commitment to sportsmanship and talent development.
As Barak FC and Nagaland United SC take the field, anticipation is at an all-time high. Where Barak FC won the Match by penalties and through to the Final of the Nagaland super league 2025.
(Limatoshi, IA dimapur)
