Yon SC, Nitsuyan FC shine as knockout stage of LFC ends

The qualifying group stage of the 15th Lotha Football Championship (LFC) 2026 concluded on Tuesday at the Public Ground, Wokha, with three thrilling encounters that set the tone for the knockout rounds.
In the opening match, Airfield Colony FC staged a spirited comeback to hold Star Madrid FC to a 2–2 draw. Star Madrid looked dominant after Mhabemo’s opener in the 30th minute and Chumben’s strike six minutes later. Airfield Colony responded quickly through Yanchibemo in the 38th minute, before a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser (70+1) ensured the teams shared the spoils.
Yon Sporting Club showcased their strength in the second match, defeating Flamingo FC 3–1. Flamingo struck early through Nitova in the 5th minute, but Yon SC replied instantly with Sentisang’s equaliser in the 7th minute. Sentisang added another in the 47th minute, while Renpithung sealed the victory in the 69th minute, underlining Yon SC’s title credentials. The final game of the qualifying round saw Nitsuyan FC overpower Niro Range FC (NRFC) with a dominant 4–1 win. NRFC took the lead through Zuthungo in the 21st minute, but Nitsuyan FC turned the tide after halftime. Yiben Ezung scored twice in the 48th and 63rd minutes, followed by an own goal from NRFC in the 68th minute. Yhoto Lohe capped the performance with a stoppage-time strike (70+1). With the group stage completed, the championship now advances to the knockout phase. The first quarterfinals on February 4 will be played between Friends Club and Tsumang FC, while Nitsuyan FC will take on Flamingo FC, as the race for the LFC 2026 crown intensifies.