Defending champions Sechü Zubza FC had to rely on last-minute heroics to advance, while Red Scars FC made an easy passage to the quarterfinals of the ongoing 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2025 played here at IG Stadium, Kohima, on October 7.
In the second match of the day, defending champions Sechü Zubza FC narrowly edged past Ward-19 via a penalty shootout. A heroic save from their captain Neithovilie Chalieu in the shootout helped the team progress further. The defending champions faced a stern test against Ward-19 Kohima. After a goalless draw through regulation and extra time, the match went into a penalty shootout.
It was here that former Shillong Lajong goalkeeper Neithovilie Chalieu turned into the hero of the night, producing three crucial saves to guide SZFC to a 3-1 shootout victory. His performance ensured the defending champions stayed alive in their quest for back-to-back titles.
The Man of the Match award was presented to Chalieu by T. Phangphe Wangsha, Deputy Director, Rural Development, Government of Nagaland, who was the Match Patron.
While in the first match, Red Scars FC displayed ruthless efficiency in the 3rd Pre Quarter-final, dismantling Michazou FC 5-0 to book a place in the quarterfinals.
Asito opened the scoring in the 5th minute and doubled it in the 23rd, setting the tone for the hosts. Rakeviche extended the lead in the 26th minute, before Sentisang struck twice in the second half (63’, 71’) to complete the scoring.
The Player of the Match award went to Asito for his two-goal heroics, presented by Shri Kevilelhou Zumvû, former Vice-President of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU).
With these results, fans can look forward to a tantalizing quarterfinal clash on October 11, as the free-scoring Red Scars FC face the resilient defending champions Sechü Zubza FC.
In their previous meetings at the Nagaland Super League on January 29, 2025, Sechü Zubza FC defeated Red Scars FC 2-0 in Kohima. While on February 26, 2025, Red Scars FC defeated Sechü Zubza FC 2-1 in Chümoukedima. Head-to-head, both teams have won a game each.