Nagaland United secures 3-1 win over Real Kashmir in IFL debut

Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) achieved a historic start to their first Indian Football League (IFL) campaign, defeating Real Kashmir FC 3-1 at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar. The victory marks a significant milestone for Nagaland, providing the state with national league representation for the first time in 78 years.

JH Remlala opened the scoring for the debutants in the third minute, followed by a goal from Vanlalhriatzuala K in the 21st minute. Although Real Kashmir managed to reduce the deficit through an own goal by Nagaland United captain Rohmingthanga in the 59th minute, Vanlalhriatzuala scored again in the 74th minute to secure the win. Vanlalhriatzuala was named Man of the Match.

Nagaland United, founded in 2024 and coached by Kaizad Ambapardiwalla, secured their IFL place through a goodwill agreement with Aizawl FC. The club utilized several under-22 players in their starting lineup. Real Kashmir, led by head coach Ishfaq Ahmed, will look to recover from the opening defeat as the league returns to a full home-and-away format.