Barak FC’s Lungpetsing Thou celebrates after scoring the match-winning goal, while NUSC’s custodian lies dejected during Playoff-2 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium on March 26. (Screengrab: @NagalandSuperLeague/YouTube)
Custodian Dziesengulie Kire saves the day
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | March 26
Barak Football Club (FC) booked their place in the final of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nagaland United Sporting Club (NUSC) in Playoff-2 at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.
The match ended in a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes of intense action, forcing a tie-breaker. Barak FC took the lead in the 25th minute with a stunning long-range strike from Laiwang Bohham.
Holding onto their advantage until stoppage time, they appeared set for victory until NUSC captain S Salym equalised with a crucial header off a well-delivered cross, pushing the match into extra time.
With neither team able to break the deadlock in extra time, the game went to penalties.
Barak FC’s goalkeeper, Dziesengulie Kire, emerged as the hero, saving NUSC’s first three penalty attempts.
His efforts set the stage for teammate Lungpetsing Thou, who calmly slotted home the winning goal, sending Barak FC’s supporters into jubilation.
With this victory, Barak FC advances to the NSL final, scheduled for April 1.
Meanwhile, NUSC will have another chance to secure a spot in the final when they face Playoff-1 winners Longterok FC in Playoff-3 on March 29.
