A 26-member contingent from Nagaland, including players and officials, will depart for Nagaon, Assam, on July 28 to participate in the Junior (Boys) National Football Championship. The tournament begins on July 30, 2024, with Nagaland facing Lakshadweep in their opening match.
Placed in Group A, Nagaland will compete against Andaman & Nicobar, Manipur, Lakshadweep, and Haryana in the Junior Boys’ National Football Championship Tier 2. “We are looking forward to our first match against Lakshadweep,” said Khwetelhi Thopi, the team’s coach, a former footballer and now an AFC “C” License holder. The team is currently training at IG Stadium, Kohima.
“I thank the NFA (Nagaland Football Association) for giving young coaches like us an opportunity in AIFF (All India Football Federation) tournaments,” Thopi added. “This initiative is a first for our state.”
It is uncommon for Nagaland to send junior teams to national tournaments.
Thopi expressed confidence in his team, stating, “The boys will do well and we look forward to them putting up a good fight.”
The football community in Nagaland echoed this confidence. “The team, chosen by our AFC ‘A’ license coach William Koso, is expected to perform well,” said a football fan.
William Koso is the first coach from Nagaland to obtain an AFC A license. He is currently the High Performance Manager at the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence (KISCE) in Nagaland, located in Kohima. Koso was also part of the Aizawl FC team that won the I-League. Additionally, he is a coach educator, conducting diploma courses for AIFF D and C certificates. He began his coaching career at Life Sports FC after retiring as a goalkeeper.
As Nagaland embarks on this rare national journey, the positive strides made by the NFA reflect a promising future for football in the state, inspiring hope and enthusiasm among players and fans alike. With the NFA elections scheduled for next year, football fans and supporters are hopeful that the NFA initiative will not be a one-time initiative but will continue to create opportunities for the sport’s growth in the same manner.
The Junior (Boys) National Football Championship, also known as the BC Roy Trophy, caters to players under 15 years old and marks a significant event in Indian football. Starting from the 2023-24 season, it transitioned from an under-19 to an under-15 tournament.
Team Roster:
Players: Hahao Chonloi, Khosayi Chakhesang, Manpa Konyak, Thegovizo Medoze, Viselie Vasa, Hokhovi Rhetso, Ketouselie Yhome, Seminlun Lhangal, Thangginhao Singson, Moamanen, Joseph Lokido Janger, Neihelie Mephfu-O, Menolhusie Rino, Nahpan, Atsibu Medoze, Yinpei KN Antehu, Kevibulie Kaimo.
Waiting List: Ayhunlo Chung, Hongpe Yongwen, Kevitsizo Nakhro, Wongtoserum, YS Chingmak
Officials: Manager: Azho Sophie, AFC “C” License; Coach: Khwetelhi Thopi, AFC “C” License; Assistant Coach: Kechi Kulimbe, AFC “C” License; Physio: Zakielatuo Seletsu
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