NSF Trophy: NUSC edge past MSU to enter semifinals

Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over the Mao Students Union (MSU) in the third quarter-final match of the ongoing 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on Monday.
The match witnessed an intense battle between two well-drilled sides, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination. Sanathoi Metei (jersey no. 12) proved to be the game-changer for Nagaland United, netting both goals in the 22nd and 67th minutes.
For MSU, Ngararsuing (no. 9) managed to pull one back in the 72nd minute, but the equalizer remained elusive despite several late attempts.
Match patron Special Officer to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neibalie Rio, later presented the Player of the Match award to Sanathoi Metei for his outstanding performance.
The Mao Students Union entered the quarter-finals after a strong campaign marked by consistency and teamwork. Their road to the last eight included convincing victories over Highlanders FC Pfutsero (3–0), Meriema Youth Organisation (5–1), Phesama Students Union (5–1), and New Market Football Club (3–2). With an impressive tally of 16 goals scored and only four conceded, MSU had shown attacking flair and defensive discipline throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, Nagaland United Sports Club, a former second runners-up of the Nagaland Super League (NSL), entered the tournament directly in the pre-quarterfinals and announced their return with an emphatic performance, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament’s top contenders.
In a notice, the Publicity Committee of the 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy has informed the public that, beginning October 14, a minimum parking fee of Rs. 20 per vehicle will be charged by the management group at the Hockey Ground and nearby South Gate areas to ensure smooth traffic flow during match days.
Officials have been requested to use the South Gate, while players and team officials will enter through the North Gate. The committee has sought cooperation from all spectators and participants for the successful conduct of the tournament.