Nagaland Kengurüse Trophy: Headhunters, Dimapur SC set up for title clash

Defending champions Headhunters FC (164 Naga TA) and Dimapur Sporting Club (DSC) have advanced to the grand finale of the ongoing Kengurüse Trophy after securing hard-fought victories in their respective semi-final encounters at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima on Monday.
In the first semi-final, Headhunters FC displayed their trademark blend of discipline and attacking flair to edge past Langsa Hill FC 3–2 in a thrilling five-goal contest.
Langsa Hill began brightly and capitalised on their early dominance when Asezo found the back of the net in the 7th minute. However, the defending champions responded swiftly, with Haotimang equalising just two minutes later to restore parity. Building on their regained momentum, Laiwang converted a well-worked move in the 19th minute to hand Headhunters the lead.
Despite enjoying 56% of ball possession, Langsa Hill struggled to convert their territorial advantage into clear chances. Nevertheless, they managed to draw level before halftime through Pangai’s strike in the 44th minute, setting up a pulsating second half.
The deadlock was finally broken when Laiwang completed his brace in the 59th minute, sealing the decisive goal that propelled Headhunters into the final. Langsa Hill mounted a spirited late charge but were unable to penetrate a resolute Headhunters defence. The champions’ superior finishing and composure under pressure ultimately proved decisive, underscoring why they remain the team to beat in the competition.
In the second semi-final, Dimapur Sporting Club clinched a 2–1 victory over Lüshe FC in another closely contested encounter. Despite Lüshe FC commanding 57% possession and maintaining consistent pressure with ten corners, it was Dimapur who broke the deadlock in the 29th minute through Kuvezo, who finished off a swift counterattack.
Lüshe FC responded five minutes later when Thulunso levelled the score in the 34th minute. But just after the break, Rhitsho netted the match-winning goal in the 48th minute to restore Dimapur’s lead. From then on, the Dimapur side showcased outstanding defensive organisation and tactical discipline to absorb sustained pressure and deny Lüshe any clear opportunities.
Though the statistics favoured Lüshe in possession and attempts, Dimapur’s seven shots on target compared to their opponents’ five highlighted their efficiency in front of goal. Their victory secured a historic appearance in the grand finale against the defending champions.
The much-anticipated final between Headhunters FC and Dimapur Sporting Club is scheduled for November 6, 2025, at the IG Stadium, Kohima, promising a contest between reigning dominance and rising ambition.
Meanwhile, Lüshe FC will take on Langsa Hill FC in the third-place playoff on November 5, 2025, 10:00 a.m. at IG Stadium Kohima.