Dream start for the debutants! Nagaland United SC stun Real Kashmir FC 3-1 in their IFL debut at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar.
Nagaland United stun Real Kashmir 3-1 in IFL debut
Srinagar, October 30 (MExN): Nagaland United SC began their Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 campaign in impressive fashion, defeating Real Kashmir FC 3-1 in their season opener at the TRC Stadium in Srinagar on Friday.
Making their debut in the national league, Nagaland United took an early lead through JH Remlala in the third minute before Vanlalhriatzuala K doubled the advantage in the 21st minute. Although Real Kashmir pulled one back through an own goal by Nagaland United captain Rohmingthanga in the 59th minute, Vanlalhriatzuala struck again in the 74th minute to seal a memorable victory.
Vanlalhriatzuala was named Man of the Match for his two-goal performance.
The victory earned Nagaland United their maiden three points in the IFL, marking a strong start to their debut campaign.
Nagaland United, coached by Kaizad Ambapardiwalla, fielded five under-22 players in their starting XI. The visitors made an immediate impact, taking the lead in the third minute after Stephen Lalrinfela's long throw-in from the left caused confusion in the Real Kashmir penalty area. Following a blocked attempt, Remlala regained possession and fired home from close range.
The debutants doubled their lead in the 21st minute through a well-worked attacking move. Vincent Lalduhawma controlled an aerial ball before linking up with Zomuansanga, who returned the pass.
Vincent then released Vanlalhriatzuala on the right, and the forward finished with a right-footed shot into the far corner.
Real Kashmir, coached by Ishfaq Ahmed, gradually found their footing and created opportunities to reduce the deficit. However, goalkeeper Vanlalhriatpuia made crucial saves, particularly during first-half stoppage time, to preserve Nagaland United's two-goal advantage at the break.
The hosts returned with greater urgency after the interval and were rewarded in the 59th minute. A cross from Lalvenhima on the right led to Rohmingthanga inadvertently directing the ball into his own net.
With the goal providing renewed momentum to Real Kashmir, the contest opened up. However, Nagaland United restored their two-goal cushion in the 74th minute. Zomuansanga split the defence with a through ball to Vanlalhriatzuala, who rounded the advancing goalkeeper before finishing into an empty net.
Real Kashmir struggled to find another breakthrough as Nagaland United maintained their defensive discipline and continued to threaten on the counter. The visitors also came close to extending their lead in the 83rd minute, but goalkeeper James Kirthan produced a flying save to deny Laldanmawia.
Despite late attempts by the hosts, Nagaland United held firm to secure a 3-1 victory and make their first appearance in the IFL an unforgettable one.
