Nagaland: Quarter-finals deliver drama and dominance in 15th Lotha Football C‘ship

The ongoing 15th Lotha Football Championship (LFC) in Wokha produced contrasting quarter-final encounters on Tuesday, with Tsumang FC staging a dramatic comeback to edge Friends Club in a penalty shootout, while Nitsuyan FC cruised past Flamingo FC in emphatic fashion.
In the first quarter-final, Friends Club appeared firmly in control after a commanding first-half display. Goals from Joel Haokip (23’), Saronbemo (26’) and Renjamo Murry (47’) gave them a 3–0 advantage. However, Tsumang FC regrouped after the break, with Sulanthung pulling one back in the 46th minute. Ephyothung Odyuo then struck twice, first in the 70th minute and again deep into stoppage time (93’), to level the contest at 3–3 and force extra time.
With neither side able to find a winner in the added period, the match went to penalties.
Tsumang FC held their nerve, with their goalkeeper producing a decisive save to secure victory. Speaking after the match, the goalkeeper credited improved second-half coordination and team unity for the turnaround that carried them into the semi-finals.
The second quarter-final was a one-sided affair, as Nitsuyan FC overwhelmed Flamingo FC 7–1. Yiben Ezung starred with four goals (12’, 79’, 88’, 92’), while Ayenmongba added a brace (17’, 50’) and Yhoto Lohe netted in the 67th minute.
Flamingo FC managed a consolation through Nitova in the 77th minute, but Nitsuyan’s relentless attacking play left little room for recovery.
With these results, Tsumang FC and Nitsuyan FC have booked their places in the semi-finals.
The tournament continues on February 5, when Nyiro Range FC face Old Changsu FC, followed by Yon Sporting Club against Airfield Colony FC.