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Nagaland Super League: Intensity rises as playoff race heats up

ByMOKOKCHUNG TIMES

Mar 16, 2025 #Football, #Nagaland, #NSL

The Nagaland Super League witnessed a thrilling Match Day 14 on March 15, 2025, with three high-stakes encounters that shaped the league’s playoff picture. While some teams solidified their positions, others were left grappling for the final qualification spot. The day was marked by defensive resilience, missed opportunities, and a first defeat for the previously unbeaten Barak FC.

Red Scars FC vs Nagaland United SC – Stalemate in Chümoukedima

A hard-fought battle between Red Scars FC and Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) ended in a goalless draw at Chümoukedima Football Stadium. Despite a flurry of attacking moves from both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough, largely due to the outstanding goalkeeping display by Neithovilie Chalieu (Jersey No. 32) of Red Scars FC, who was deservedly named Player of the Match.

Red Scars FC started aggressively, creating early chances but failing to convert. Their defensive setup, however, remained firm, frustrating NUSC’s attacking efforts. NUSC, on the other hand, dominated possession and launched repeated offensives, yet their inability to finish key opportunities cost them a crucial win. While NUSC will rue their missed chances, Red Scars will take pride in their disciplined defensive performance, earning a valuable point in the race for the playoffs.

Longterok FC vs Barak FC – Undefeated no more

The biggest shock of the day came as Longterok FC edged out Barak FC with a 1-0 victory, ending Barak’s undefeated run in the league. Longterok controlled possession and dictated the tempo with relentless pressure, eventually finding the breakthrough in the first half. Despite Barak FC’s late push, they failed to breach Longterok’s defensive wall, leading to their first defeat of the season. K Arap Konyak scored the lone goal of the match at 36th minute.

Namang Yimjong (Jersey No. 12) from Longterok FC played a pivotal role in defense and was named Player of the Match for his commanding presence at the back. While Barak FC remains atop the standings, their defeat highlights vulnerabilities they must address before the playoffs. Longterok, meanwhile, strengthened their playoff credentials with a well-earned win.

Sechu Zubza FC vs 27 United FC – A tale of two halves

At IG Stadium in Kohima, Sechü Zubza FC and 27 United FC played out a 1-1 draw in a match of contrasting halves. 27 United FC took an early lead via a penalty but shifted to a defensive strategy in the second half, allowing Sechu Zubza to dominate proceedings. The pressure paid off when an own goal by 27 United FC gifted Sechu Zubza the equalizer.

Goalkeeper Widambo Rentta (Jersey No. 40) from 27 United FC delivered a standout performance, making crucial saves to prevent a Sechu Zubza comeback and earning the Player of the Match title. Despite their strong finish, Sechu Zubza’s lack of clinical finishing cost them a potential victory, while 27 United FC will feel disappointed in letting their early lead slip.

Playoff qualification: Who takes the final spot?

With the top three teams—Barak FC (26 points), Nagaland United FC (21 points), and Longterok FC (20 points)—already securing playoff berths, the battle for the fourth and final qualification spot remains intense. Three teams—27 United FC (13 points), Sechü Zubza FC (12 points), and Red Scars FC (10 points)—are still in contention, while Frontier Warriors FC (4 points) has been eliminated.

NSL standings after Matchday 14, March 15

Upcoming March 19 fixtures to determine playoff scenario

If Red Scars FC beat Barak FC, they will move to 13 points, tying with 27 United FC (provided 27 United lose to Frontier Warriors). The qualification will then be decided on goal difference. However, if Sechu Zubza FC beat Longterok FC, they will reach 15 points, surpassing 27 United FC for fourth place.

27 United FC must win against Frontier Warriors to secure their playoff position. A draw or loss would leave their fate dependent on the other match results.

If Longterok FC defeat Sechu Zubza FC, they will overtake Nagaland United FC for second place, pushing NUSC to third.

As the league nears its conclusion, every goal and point matter. The final matchday will be decisive in shaping the semifinal lineup, promising another round of high-stakes football in the Nagaland Super League.

March 19 Fixtures

27 United Football Club Vs Frontier Warriors
1:00PM at IG  Stadium Kohima

Sechu Zubza Football Club Vs Longterok Football Club
4:00PM  at IG Stadium Kohima

Barak Football Club Vs Red Scars Football Club
5:00PM at  Chümoukedima Football Stadium

By MOKOKCHUNG TIMES

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