Players of Nitsüyan FC pose for a photo after clinching the 15th Lotha Football Championship 2026 Title. (Morung Photo)
Ayenmongba delivers impressive hat-trick
Morung Express News
Wokha | February 7
Nitsüyan FC lifted the trophy of the 15th Lotha Football Championship 2026 after a commanding 5–0 victory over Nyiro Range FC in the final match played at the Public Ground, Wokha, on February 7.
The final turned into a one-sided contest as Nitsüyan FC dominated proceedings right from the kickoff. Displaying sharp passing quality, disciplined movement and relentless attacking football, Nitsüyan quickly asserted control from the start. Ayenmongba emerged as the star performer, scoring an impressive hat-trick within the first half, finding the net in the 12th, 17th and 26th minutes, leaving Nyiro Range FC struggling to recover.
Nitsüyan FC continued their dominance in the second half as Mhabemo Kikon extended the lead in the 77th minute, followed by Yiben Ezung, who sealed the win with the fifth goal in the 81st minute. Despite their efforts, Nyiro Range FC was unable to penetrate Nitsüyan’s solid defensive setup and ended the match scoreless.
With clinical finishing, cohesive teamwork and complete control throughout the match, Nitsüyan FC capped off their campaign in emphatic fashion, making the final a memorable showcase of attacking football.
The closing ceremony of the championship was graced by Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe, NCS (Retd.), MLA, as the Special Guest, while Neibou Sekhose, AIFF Executive Committee Member and President of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), attended as the Special Invitee. Medolenuo Ambrosia Loucü, NFA Representative, made a special appearance at the event.
Addressing the gathering, Y Mhonbemo Humtsoe informed that the existing Public Ground, measuring 4.2 acres, has come under government guardianship. Humtsoe stated that while the land has been processed by the government, it will continue to be utilised for public programmes, national functions and other events. He further announced that the government has acquired 7.5 acres of land at Longsa village, where an astro turf football ground and an indoor stadium for badminton and other indoor sports will be constructed.
Highlighting the deep-rooted love for football among the people of Wokha, the MLA described the sport as a beautiful game that fosters unity and oneness. He noted that although only 22 players compete on the field, the passion and excitement extend far beyond the pitch to the spectators.
Speaking on the occasion, Medolenuo Ambrosia expressed her honour at being among football lovers and players in Wokha during her first official visit as an NFA representative, following a FIFA–AIFF workshop held in Delhi last year.
Recalling her experience at the national-level workshop involving women football administrators, coaches, referees and match officials from across India and abroad, she emphasised that women’s football in India is steadily growing into a structured ecosystem, offering opportunities not only in playing but also in coaching, officiating and administration.
She highlighted the Indian senior women’s team’s commendable performance in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup and spoke of renewed hope for India’s qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup after more than two decades. At the same time, she also lauded Nagaland’s progress in women’s football, citing the participation of the state’s Under-17 women’s team in national-level tournaments, including the Asmita League, hosted within the state.
Stressing the importance of support systems, Ambrosia pointed out that women footballers often face challenges stemming from societal mindsets, making parental, community and institutional support crucial. She praised Wokha district for its proactive role in promoting women’s football and expressed hope that women’s leagues in the district would continue in the coming years.
Meanwhile, NFA President Neibou Sekhose congratulated the Wokha District Football Association (WDFA) for consistently organising the prestigious Lotha Football Championship and nurturing football talent in the district. Recalling his own playing days in the 1980s, he remarked on the significant transformation of the football landscape in Nagaland over the years.
Sekhose highlighted key milestones, including the renaming of the Junior National Football Championship in honour of Dr T Ao, India’s first Olympic football captain, and Nagaland’s successful hosting of several national-level tournaments. He noted that the state has now entered the top 12 football rankings in the country and has received multiple awards from the AIFF for grassroots and development initiatives.
Encouraging players, he emphasised discipline, determination, hard work and sportsmanship as the cornerstones of success, adding that football speaks a universal language and has the power to unite people beyond boundaries.
