Nagaland vs Aizawl

The I-League side controlled much of the first half against their state-level hosts. The breakthrough came just before the interval — L. Zomuansanga found the net in the 45th minute to give Aizawl a 1-0 lead at the break.

Nagaland United pushed for an equaliser after the restart but could not breach the Aizawl defence. The visitors sealed the result in the 82nd minute when H. Lalruatfela struck to make it 2-0, a margin that held until full-time.

Zomuansanga's stoppage-time opener just before half-time was decisive. Nagaland United had held firm through the opening 44 minutes, but conceding on the stroke of the interval gave Aizawl a platform to manage the second half with composure. Nagaland were forced to chase the game after the restart, which opened spaces for Aizawl's second goal.

• L. Zomuansanga (Aizawl) — Scored the vital opener on the stroke of half-time, tilting the match in Aizawl's favour.
• H. Lalruatfela (Aizawl) — Added the second goal in the 82nd minute to put the result beyond doubt.
• Aizawl defence — Kept a clean sheet against Nagaland United's second-half pressure, marshalled effectively by the back line.

Player of the Match: L. Zomuansanga — his goal just before the break shaped the entire outcome.

No detailed match stats (possession, shots, xG) were recorded for this friendly, but the 2-0 scoreline reflects Aizawl's efficiency. One goal in each half suggests controlled, measured progress rather than a dominant onslaught. The absence of any cards indicates a disciplined, sportsmanlike contest — fitting for an exhibition match organised under a peace and charity banner.

This was a pre-season friendly for Aizawl FC, who compete in the I-League, India's top-tier football league. The match was the main event of the "Match for Peace, Goal for Hope" initiative organised by the Nagaland Super League (NSL), aimed at promoting unity and raising support for underprivileged children.

Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio attended as chief guest, alongside ministers, advisers and government officials. Coca-Cola partnered the event as beverage sponsor.

The result serves as a useful early-season test for Aizawl as they prepare for the 2026-27 I-League campaign. Nagaland United SC gained valuable exposure against higher-level opposition.

A straightforward, professional performance from Aizawl FC against a game but outmatched Nagaland side. The two goals — one in each half — reflected the gulf in class between an I-League outfit and a state-level representative team, but the broader purpose of the evening — football for peace and charitable purpose — overshadowed the scoreline itself.