The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Football Day 2025 was held at IG Stadium, Kohima, on March 8, 2025. The program was organized by the Kohima District Football Association (KDFA) under the aegis of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), with the President of the Angami Women Association, Neithono R. Sothu, as the special guest and the President of the Kohima Press Club, Alice Yoshü, as the honored guest.
Speaking at the event on behalf of all women, Sothu expressed gratitude to KDFA for organizing the program to encourage women footballers. She noted that the event coincided with the Nagaland Super League, providing valuable opportunities for female players. She cited renowned footballers Alisha Lehmann and Marta Vieira as inspirations, emphasizing that women from Nagaland can also reach international levels, win trophies, and bring pride to the state.
In his welcome address, AIFF Executive Member and NFA President K. Neibu Sekhose highlighted that AFC Women’s Football Day marks a decade of progress and commitment to advancing women’s football since its inception in 2015. He stressed the importance of sports in youth development, stating that participation in games boosts self-esteem, social skills, and confidence. He also announced that the All India Football Federation (AIFF) had approved naming the Junior National Girls Championship after Dr. T. Ao, the first captain of the Indian Olympic football team in 1948 and the flag bearer of the Indian contingent. Additionally, AIFF has requested Nagaland to host the first Women’s League later this year.
As part of the celebration, a football match was played between IG Girls Sports Academy and Kohima FC Girls, where Kohima FC Girls secured victory with a one-goal lead.
KDFA President M. Mathew Yhome chaired the program, while Rev. Sr. Margaret Sekhose, MSMHC Headmistress, invoked God’s blessings, and Neilaü Thaprü and Vekuyole Tase presented a special musical performance.