Nagaland: Yon SC, NRFC march into semi-finals of 15th Lotha Football Championship

The quarter-final stage of the 15th Lotha Football Championship 2026 produced contrasting encounters at the public ground, Wokha, with Yon Sporting Club cruising past Airfield Colony FC and Nyiro Range FC (NRFC) edging Old Changsu FC in a dramatic shootout. In the third quarter-final, Yon Sporting Club delivered a commanding performance to secure their semi-final berth with a resounding 6–0 victory. Sentisang opened the scoring as early as the 2nd minute, before an own goal from Airfield Colony FC handed Yon further control. Yongsen Ao added a composed finish in the 28th minute to make it 3–0 at halftime.
The second half saw Yon tighten their grip on the contest, with Rhondemo netting twice (66’, 89’) and Renpithung striking in the 79th minute to complete the rout. Airfield Colony FC struggled to contain Yon’s pace and precision as the match turned into a one-sided affair.
The fourth quarter-final, however, unfolded in stark contrast, offering high drama and tension. NRFC struck first through Nchumthing in the 13th minute, but Old Changsu FC fought back with resilience. Their persistence paid off in the dying moments when Ekonthung equalised in the 90th minute, forcing the game into penalties.
In the ensuing shootout, NRFC held their nerve to overcome Old Changsu FC and advance to the semi-finals. Goalkeeper Shashi, who was named Man of the Match, admitted the team had felt both nerves and confidence heading into the knockout stage. He also urged supporters to turn up in large numbers to back the team in their upcoming semi-final clash.
Semi-finals
First semi-final:
NRFC vs Tsumang FC (11:00 AM)
Second semi-final:
Yon Sporting Club vs
Nitsuyan FC: (1:00 pm)