11th MPL 2026 champions Vanguard FC with dignitaries on May 28. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 28
Vanguard FC (Old Boys) clinched the 11th edition of the Morning Premier League (MPL) 2026, which concluded at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima under the aegis of Morning Football Association (MFA).
In their last match on May 28, Vanguard FC defeated Morung United 5-2. Yhunshalo netted all the five goals for Vanguard FC. Khriesito and Repa contributed a goal each for Morung United.
Journey of Vanguard FC
During the 4 month long MPL, Vanguard FC topped the league table with 46 points. In the inaugural match on February 9 last, Vanguard FC overpowered Gethemgo FC 2-1 with Hethanglo and Vivo, as first scorers of the team.
The team played 18 matches and won 15 matches. They drew one match and loss two matches.
The 11th edition of MPL was participated by 10 teams—Vanguard FC, Morung United, Morning FC, Unity FC, Gethemgo FC, Eagle FC, Mustang FC, All Blacks, Nyibon FC and Merhulietsa FC.
The event partners for the event were the Youth Resources & Sports Department, Life Pro Sound Solution, Innovations, Symphony Cafe, The Morung Express (Media), 45th & 13th Battalion Assam Rifles and Voluntary Blood Donors Association Nagaland.
Call for positive growth of football in Nagaland
Gracing the closing ceremony as the special guest, MLA Benei M. Lamthiu, General Secretary, Nagaland Football Association (NFA) expressed happiness over the status of the MPL, which is growing year by year as the season progresses.
He said that the Department of Youth Resources & Sports and the NFA have been trying its best in locating ways and means to produce more professional footballers from Nagaland.
“We need support from each and every individual to ensure positive growth of football in our state. We need lots of organisers and organisations who can promote football in our state,” he said. We can make our lives better through football and sports in our state, Lamthiu said. “The more goals that you score, it shows that your league is improving. Today, you are playing a game more technically. That’s why you are able to score more goals and make more records,” he said. “Through football, we can build good relationships,” Lamthiu said adding that football can propagate unity amongst the different parts of the state.
He assured that the NFA is always “behind to support you (MFA) and the government is always there to support you.”
‘MPL is about friendship, unity, healthy living’
MFA president Burakum Ao extended appreciation to all the 10 teams and players who displayed outstanding sportsmanship, discipline, and passion for the beautiful game. “Your commitment and competitive spirit made this league exciting and memorable,” he said.
He thanked the organizing committee, referees, volunteers, medical team, ground staff, media partners, and every individual working behind the scenes. “The Morning Premier League 2026 was not just about competition. It was about friendship, unity, discipline, healthy living, and strengthening our football family,” he said.
He sought the continuous support from everyone and work together for the growth of football and positive community spirit.
Burakum informed that Lopenkokba Champions Memorial Cup will start from June 29. Colonel Krishna Mishra, Commandant 45th Assam Rifles also graced the closing ceremony as the guest of honour.
Earlier, the programme was led by Hethanglo while Victor Pucho invoked God’s blessings. Arenchenla Walling presented a special number. NFA President K Neibou Sekhose also present at the closing programme.
INDIVIDUAL WINNERS
Golden Boot: Yhunshalo (Vanguard FC)
Golden Glove: Avisa (Vanguard FC)
Best Defender: Vizelie (Vanguard FC)
Best Midfielder: Benlo (Vanguard FC)
Player of the Season: Mele (Unity FC)
Fair Play Award: Eagle FC
