The 15th Lotha Football Championship 2026 began at Wokha town public ground with Yon Sporting Club and Nyiro Range Football Club winning their opening matches.
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WOKHA — The inaugural ceremony of the 15th Lotha Football Championship 2026 got underway on Wednesday at Wokha town public ground, marking the formal commencement of one of the district’s most anticipated sporting events.
The programme was graced by Chumlamo Humtsoe, ADC of Satakha and co-owner of Doyang Strikers FC, as the inaugural guest, while W Myingthungo Kikon, chairperson of Wokha Town Council (WTC), attended as the special invitee.
The ceremony began with arrival and line-up of players, followed by hoisting of the tournament’s flag by the inaugural guest.
Addressing the gathering, Humtsoe underscored the vital role of sports in fostering discipline, unity, character building and healthy competition especially among the youth. He highlighted that the launch of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) has given a significant boost to football in the state, opening up wider exposure and greater opportunities for local footballers to showcase their talent at higher platforms.
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He encouraged the players to stay focused, work hard and remain committed to continuous improvement, stating that success in football comes not only from talent but also from dedication, discipline and teamwork. He further urged football lovers, supporters and well-wishers to collectively support local players, stressing that strong community backing plays a crucial role in helping athletes progress to higher levels.
Reiterating the spirit of the game, he called upon the players to uphold sportsmanship and fair play and to use the championship as a platform for personal growth, unity and positive competition, noting that football has the power to inspire, connect people and shape future leaders.
The special invitee Kikon, in his address, spoke on the values of discipline, teamwork, perseverance, focus, sportsmanship, physical fitness and adaptability, both on and off the field. He acknowledged the challenges of organising a tournament of such magnitude and expressed appreciation to the Wokha District Football Association (WDFA) for their consistent efforts in promoting football and providing opportunities for young talents in the district.
He urged the players to give their best while maintaining respect for opponents, officials and spectators. Besides, he urged the audience to encourage all teams in a positive spirit.
Highlighting football’s role in strengthening community bonds, he expressed hope that the championship would continue to nurture talent and contribute to the growth of a vibrant sporting culture in Wokha district.
The presidential address was delivered by N Samuel Ezung, who outlined the objectives of the championship and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the development and promotion of football in the district, while the fair play pledge was administered by Athungo Erui, member of the technical committee, who urged all the teams and officials to uphold integrity, respect and fairness throughout the tournament.
In the opening matches, Yon Sporting Club and Nyiro Range Football Club registered win.
Yon Sporting Club defeated Emirates FC by 4-1, while Nyiro Range Football Club defeated Airfield Colony FC by 2-1.
January 29 fixtures:
Flamingo FC vs Old Changsu FC
Star Madrid FC vs Tsumang FC
Yon Sporting Club vs Friends Club