NSL Season 2 in pipe-line: Abu Metha

Advisor to chief minister, and secretary general, Nagaland Olympic Association, Abu Metha, who was also a member of NSL first season governing body, affirmed that a second season will be held, adding that discussions have already been initiated with the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), which owns the league’s intellectual property and is responsible for finalising the calendar.
Addressing media fraternity on the side-lines of a programme in Chümoukedima on Saturday, Metha termed the inaugural season a huge success, crediting football fans for their enthusiastic participation.
He reminded that the league received the “Best League Award” from All India Football Federation, setting a benchmark nationally. He also said efforts are being made to ensure that the NSL champion qualifies for higher national divisions.
He further dwelled on Nagaland’s improved performance in the Santosh Trophy qualifiers, including significant victories against traditional football powerhouses. Dwelling on the schedule for NSL, he stated that it would need to align with national competitions such as the I-League and Indian Super League, as well as the proposed Northeast Football League.
Asked on whether spectators can expect expanded stadium infrastructure, Metha said that while improvements are on-going, including the Chümoukedima Football Stadium, he maintained that large-scale expansion must be carefully considered. “Building very large stadiums that remain unused most of the year can become a financial burden” he said, noting that infrastructure must align with sustainability and broader growth of sports as an industry.
Addressing suggestions to host future NSL matches primarily in Chümoukedima due to higher attendance and better accessibility compared to Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima, Metha acknowledged the logistical advantages of the venue.
He however stressed that league football ideally follows a home-and-away format, a model that remains challenging in the State due to infrastructure constraints and travel logistics across districts.
“We would love to have packed stadiums everywhere, but we must also work within realities. Infrastructure remains our biggest challenge” he said.
He later stated that venue decisions would ultimately be taken in consultation with the NFA once fixtures and regulations are finalised.