Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) will make its debut in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 when it faces former champions Real Kashmir FC in the opening match at TRC Stadium, Srinagar, on Friday, ending Nagaland’s 78-year wait for representation in the national league.
Founded in 2024 in Chümoukedima, Nagaland United secured its place in the IFL through a goodwill agreement with Aizawl FC, approved by the All India Football Federation on September 9. Under the arrangement, the club acquired Aizawl’s sporting rights, with the Mizoram-based club also pledging technical and development support.
The entry marks a new chapter for football in Nagaland, whose sporting history includes Dr Talimeren Ao, captain of independent India’s football team at the 1948 London Olympics. The club has retained an experienced squad while prioritising local players, including Ghuqhe Chishi, a 20-year-old central midfielder, and Vinato Achumi, both products of Nagaland’s under-20 sides.
Head coach Kaizad Ambapardiwalla said the team was in a positive mindset and had focused on discipline, attitude and developing a winning mentality despite limited preparation time.
Nagaland United will be captained by defender Rohmingthanga, who has previously played for Aizawl FC in the I-League. Real Kashmir, meanwhile, have lost last season’s captain Mohammad Inam to Indian Super League side Punjab FC but have strengthened their attack with experienced striker Marcus Joseph and several domestic players.
Nagaland United will play their first home match of the IFL against Gokulam Kerala on November 14, followed by Dempo a fortnight later and Mohammedan Sporting on December 19. (With PTI inputs)