Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) made a stunning debut, cruising past Dimapur Chaos with a dominant 7–0 victory in the pre-quarterfinal stage of the 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy at IG Stadium, Kohima, on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Mao Students’ Union (MSU) staged a dramatic late comeback to edge former champions New Market FC 3–2.
In the 6th pre-quarterfinal, NUSC dismantled Dimapur Chaos with an all-out attacking display. The scoring opened as early as the 8th minute through Yhoto Lohe, before Arap Konyak and Sanathoi Meitei added two more in quick succession to put their side firmly in control. The second half offered no respite for the Chaos defence as Joel Haokip (51’), Jenish Singh (63’), Manton (75’), and Ghuqhe Chishi (89’) all found the back of the net, completing a seven-goal masterclass. Joel Haokip’s lively performance earned him the Man of the Match award, presented by the Match Patron, Er. Wabanginba M, Executive Engineer, South Division, PWD, Government of Nagaland.
Earlier in the day, the 5th pre-quarterfinal produced a thriller as Mao Students’ Union came from behind to snatch victory from New Market FC. New Market started brightly with goals from Letkokia Kuki (17’) and Haoneo Kuki (38’), heading into the break with a 2–0 lead. However, MSU refused to bow out, as Lohrü Kaisü pulled one back in first-half stoppage time (45+3’). The relentless pressure continued into the dying minutes, with Kaisü striking again in the 87th minute to level the contest, before W. John delivered the decisive goal in the 90th minute to seal a remarkable 3–2 win. W. John’s performance earned him the Man of the Match award, handed over by the Match Patron, Neikhozo Suokhrie, Chairman of Kohima Municipal Council.
With these results, both Nagaland United Sports Club and Mao Students’ Union advance to the quarterfinals, setting up a clash against each other on October 13.