Correspondent
KOHIMA, AUG 29 (NPN): Sechü Zubza FC were crowned champions of the inaugural Atuo Mezhür Sekhose Super League (AMSSL) 2026 after defeating Mez & Co 3-1 following extra time at the IG Stadium, Kohima on Friday. The contest, played under foggy conditions and high tension, saw both teams battle fiercely before Sechü Zubza emerged victorious, claiming both the league championship and the Champions Cup.
Mez & Co began brightly, earning an early corner and eventually taking the lead in the 19th minute through striker Neisede, whose volley bounced awkwardly before rolling past the goalkeeper. Sechü Zubza responded with sustained pressure, and despite missing several chances, they equalised in the 35th minute. The first half ended 1-1, with both sides creating opportunities but failing to break the deadlock.
The second half was equally competitive, with Sechü Zubza earning free kicks and Mez & Co pressing hard for a winner. Foggy conditions made visibility difficult, yet both teams continued to attack. As full time approached, Mez & Co increased their offensive play, but Sechü Zubza defended firmly and looked dangerous on the counter. With neither side able to score, the match went into extra time.
Sechü Zubza seized control in the 93rd minute when striker Kevisanyü pushed the ball past the Mez & Co goalkeeper to make it 2-1. Mez & Co appealed for a penalty soon after, but the referee waved play on. Their hopes suffered a major blow when defender Radovei was sent off for a second yellow card, reducing them to 10 men. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Mez & Co continued to push forward, but Sechü Zubza’s defence held firm.
The decisive moment came in the 116th minute when captain Kekhrieletuo broke through the Mez & Co defence to score, sealing a 3-1 victory and ensuring Sechü Zubza’s triumph in both competitions. The win marked a double success, as the club claimed the Champions Cup alongside the league crown, while Mez & Co finished runners-up in both.
In the individual honours, Sechü Zubza’s Kevisanyü Peseyie won the Golden Boot, Mez & Co’s Vinato Achumi received the Golden Ball and Sechü Zubza’s Aneizo Suokhrie was named Best Emerging Player (Under-20). Ruokuovolie Phewhuo of Tsütuonuomia Youth Organisation earned the Golden Gloves, while Vanguard Football Academy received the Fair Play Award.
The league winners received Rs. 1 lakh, while the runners-up earned Rs. 70,000. Champions Cup winners were awarded Rs. 50,000, runners-up Rs. 30,000, and semi-finalists Rs 10,000 each. Individual awards carried cash prizes ranging from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 8,000, along with trophies and citations.
The inaugural AMSSL final highlighted the growing stature of football in Nagaland, with Sechü Zubza FC’s resilience and determination setting a benchmark for future editions. Their ability to recover from an early setback, withstand pressure and capitalise in extra time underscored their championship pedigree. For Mez & Co, despite their spirited performance and early lead, the loss of a key defender and missed opportunities proved costly.
With this victory, Sechü Zubza FC not only claimed silverware but also established themselves as pioneers in the AMSSL, inspiring local clubs and players across the state.