In Nagaland, the Dr Talimeren Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025-26 (Tier-2) got underway at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium yesterday. The first match was played among the Group B teams. In the opening matches yesterday, Punjab defeated Andaman and Nicobar, 20-Nil, while host Nagaland lost to Uttarakhand, 1-3.

 

 

Nagaland is hosting the national football tournament for the first time. Earlier, addressing the inaugural session, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio lauded the All India Football Federation’s decision to rename the event after Indian footballer and physician from Nagaland, Dr T Ao, calling it fitting tribute to his legacy in Indian football. He said it celebrates the unity, strength, and spirit of Indian sports through the participation of talented young players from across the country. Mr Rio said the championship showcases the growing strength and confidence of young women driving the rise of women’s football in India. 

 

 

Today, Himachal Pradesh will take on Madhya Pradesh at 2:30 PM, while Maharashtra will face Mizoram at 6:30 PM this evening.