The Nagaland Men’s Blind Football Team secured the runner-up position at the 7th Men’s and 4th Women’s Edition of the IBFF Northeast/East Zonal Blind Football Championship 2026 held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from July 1 to 3.
With a strong performance throughout the tournament, Nagaland topped Group B and advanced directly to the semi-finals. In the semi-final clash against Assam, both teams remained goalless at full time, leading to a tense penalty shootout.
Nagaland goalkeeper Rongsenyanger emerged as the match hero by saving all three penalty attempts from Assam. Chingdang Phom then converted the decisive penalty to secure a 1-0 victory and book Nagaland’s place in the final.
In the championship match, Nagaland faced a strong Meghalaya side but went down 0-3 despite a determined effort.
Chingdang Phom was recognised for his outstanding performance and was awarded the Emerging Player of the Tournament. He had also scored a crucial goal against Mizoram during the group stage.
The runner-up finish has secured Nagaland a place in the upcoming National Blind Football Championship scheduled later this year in November or December.
The team’s participation was supported by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland State Disability Forum, Mission to the Blind, and Lotha Baptist Church, Diphupar ‘B’ Youth Ministry.
The team was guided by Assistant Coach and Goal Guide Kezhaleto Zecho and goalkeeper/escort Rongsenyanger.