The 11th edition of the Morning Premier League (MPL) 2026 was formally inaugurated at I.G. Stadium, Kohima, on February 9, 2026, marking another milestone for the league.
Director of the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (DYRS), Kethosituo Sekhose, graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest. In his address, Sekhose said that sports play a vital role in bringing people together and strengthening social bonds.
Congratulating the Morning Football Association (MFA) on completing a decade of football activities, he lauded the organisers for successfully sustaining the league for 11 years. Emphasising the importance of grassroots development, Sekhose referred to the Dr T Ao Junior Girls National Football Tournament and stressed the need to promote more league based competitions across the state.
He also highlighted the importance of involving former players in sports administration, noting that such participation aligns with the government’s sports policy and the provisions of the Sports Governance Act.
Col Krishna Mishra, Commandant, 45 Assam Rifles, attended the event as the special guest. The programme was conducted by Thanpenlo, Assistant General Secretary, MFA. The invocation prayer was offered by Lipoknungsang, Associate Pastor, KABA, followed by a welcome address delivered by MFA President Burakum.
The programme also featured a special song by Azi Rudy, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Moamar, General Secretary, MFA.
In the opening match, Vanguard FC Old Boys defeated Gethemgo FC 2–1 in a hard fought contest.