Nagaland off to a flier in U20 Men’s National Football Championship

Nagaland began their campaign in Group H of the Swami Vivekananda U20 Men’s National Football Championship 2024–25 with an impressive 4-2 win over Madhya Pradesh at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama Ground on Saturday, April 19, at Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.

Nagaland took an early lead in the 2nd minute when forward S Ayenmongba found the net, setting the tone for a dynamic performance. In the 36th minute, K Arap Konyak extended their lead with a precise header from inside the box. However, Madhya Pradesh staged a quick comeback late in the first half. Mohammad Yaseer reduced the deficit in the 41st minute, followed by Rohit Yadav’s equaliser just two minutes later, sending both teams into the break tied at 2-2.

The second half was an intense battle, but it was Nagaland who regained control in the dying minutes. Ayenmongba struck again in the 89th minute, this time from the penalty spot, to restore Nagaland’s lead. Deep into stoppage time, Ghuqhe Chishi sealed the victory with a stunning left-footed curler from inside the box in the 96th minute.

In the day’s other Group H match, Bengal and Haryana played out a 2-2 draw in a closely contested affair.

With these results, Nagaland lead Group H with three points, while Bengal and Haryana are tied on one point each. Madhya Pradesh, having lost their opener, are yet to open their account. Only the top team from the group will advance to the quarter-finals.

MT