Kethosituo Sekhose, Krishna Mishra and others with the players of the inaugural match on February 9. (Morung Photo)
Vanguard FC (Old Boys) wins inaugural match
Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 9
The 11th edition of Morning Premier League (MPL) 2026 under the aegis of Morning Football Association (MFA) commenced today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Vanguard FC (Old Boys) registered win over Gethemgo FC 2-1 in inaugural march.
Hethanglo and Vivo connected a goal each for Vanguard FC.
A lone goal for Gethemgo FC came through Yangpheih.
Earlier, gracing the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest, Kethosituo Sekhose, Director, Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland, urged upon the players to play with a sportsmanship spirit.
He was appreciative that the MPL has been able to bring a lot of people together and congratulated the MFA for completing a decade of football last year.
He said that with the blessing of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, Nagaland state hosted Dr. T Ao Junior Girls National Football Championship for the first time in 2025.
“We conducted for Tier- 2 because we wanted our state to experience from the grassroots,” Sekhose said adding that a day will come when the state will even conduct Tier- 1.
“We know that sports is one area where our people, if we give our heart and soul to it, we can excel, he said.
Col. Krishna Mishra, Commandant, 45th Assam Rifles also graced the event as the special guest.
He said that MPL players are actually the bridge between the youngsters and elders.
He assured that the Assam Rifles will also be part of MPL henceforth.
The inaugural programme was led by MFA assistant general secretary Thanpenlo while Lipoknungsang, Associate Pastor, KABA invoked God’s blessing. MFA president Burakum Ao delivered welcome address while MFA advisor Mele Pucho administered oath to the participating team.
Azi Rudy presented a special song while vote of thanks was proposed by MFA general secretary Moamar.
The 11 edition featured 10 teams- Morung United, Morning Football Club, Merhulietsa FC, Eagle FC, Gethemgo FC, Unity FC, Mustang FC, Vanguard FC (Old Boys), All Blacks and Nyibon FC.
February 10 Match
Unity FC vs Morung United (7:00 AM)
