A match like no other unfolded at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium as Longterok FC and Nagaland United SC played out a dramatic draw in the Nagaland Super League (NSL) on Thursday, Match Day 13. What began as an intense contest on Wednesday turned into a chaotic, storm-hit showdown, forcing an overnight suspension before resuming this morning. With lightning strikes, heated exchanges, and relentless attacks, this clash will go down as one of the most unforgettable matches in NSL inaugural season.
The game kicked off with Longterok FC making an early statement, taking the lead through Sangtea’s goal in the very first minute and pressing aggressively. However, their intensity came at a cost as disciplinary issues began to creep in. NUSC, despite trailing, controlled much of the possession, continuously testing Longterok’s backline and rattling the woodwork multiple times. Just as the match was reaching a fever pitch, nature intervened. A violent storm accompanied by lightning forced an abrupt halt to proceedings, damaging the stadium’s floodlights and rendering the pitch unplayable.
Following AIFF regulations, the match resumed the next morning from the exact point it was suspended. If anyone thought the overnight break would cool tempers, they were mistaken. The tension from the previous night carried over, with both teams battling not only each other but their frustrations. NUSC continued their relentless attacks and eventually found their equalizer after a dominant spell in the first half.
Longterok FC, determined to reclaim their lead, came out firing in the second half, but NUSC’s resolute defense, led by standout performer Hemping L (Jersey No. 3), ensured they held on to secure a hard-fought point. Hemping’s composure at the back and crucial interventions made him the clear Player of the Match.
The drama did not end there. Longterok’s coaching staff saw red, adding another layer of controversy to an already fiery encounter. Yellow cards, heated confrontations, and desperate defensive clearances summed up a game that had everything except a winner.
In the end, both teams were left with mixed emotions. NUSC will feel they should have secured all three points, given their dominance in possession, while Longterok FC will rue their lack of discipline that saw them lose control of a match they once led.
Barak FC retains top spot with 3-0 win over 27 United FC
Barak FC delivered a commanding performance against 27 United FC, sealing a 3-0 victory in their rescheduled Nagaland Super League (NSL) Match Day 13 encounter at Chümoukedima Football Stadium. Originally set for March 12, the match was postponed due to severe lightning and resumed on March 13 at 12:30 PM.
Despite 27 United FC’s early dominance in possession, they struggled to break through Barak FC’s well-structured defense. Barak absorbed the pressure efficiently before taking control of the game, displaying clinical finishing and cohesive team play. Their counterattacks proved devastating, punishing 27 United FC’s defensive lapses.
Mangkholen (Jersey No. 44) was the standout performer of the match, playing a pivotal role in midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo, contribute to both attacking and defensive transitions, and maintain composure under pressure earned him the Player of the Match award.
Playoff race heats up as three teams battle for final spot
The win solidifies Barak FC’s position at the top of the table with an unbeaten record, accumulating 26 points from 10 matches, including 8 wins and 2 draws. With only two more games remaining, they will aim to maintain their flawless run and carry this momentum into the playoffs.
Nagaland United SC follows in second place with 20 points from 11 matches (6 wins, 2 draws, 3 losses), while Longterok FC sits third with 17 points from 10 games (4 wins, 5 draws, 1 loss).
27 United FC remains in fourth place with 12 points from 10 games, closely trailed by Sechu Zubza FC, who have 11 points from the same number of matches. Red Scars FC is in sixth place with 9 points from 10 games, while Frontier Warriors FC sits at the bottom with just 4 points from 11 games.
With only the top four teams qualifying for the playoffs, Barak FC, Nagaland United SC, and Longterok FC have already secured their spots. However, the battle for the final playoff position remains wide open between 27 United FC, Sechu Zubza FC, and Red Scars FC, while Frontier Warriors FC is the only team out of contention.
Barak FC’s latest win extended their unbeaten streak and strengthened their championship credentials. With momentum on their side, they will look to finish the league stage on a high note, while the fight for the last playoff spot intensifies in the remaining fixtures.