Debutants Nagaland United SC began their Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 campaign in style with an impressive 3-1 victory over Real Kashmir FC in the season-opener at the TRC Stadium on Friday.
JH Remlala opened the scoring in the third minute before Vanlalhriatzuala K doubled Nagaland United’s lead in the 21st minute.Real Kashmir pulled one back through an own goal by Nagaland United captain Rohmingthanga in the 59th minute. However, Vanlalhriatzuala struck again in the 74th minute to seal a memorable debut victory for the visitors.
Nagaland United made an early statement with Remlala finding the net from close range following a long throw-in by Stephen Lalrinfela.
The visitors doubled their advantage through a well-worked counterattacking move, with Vanlalhriatzuala finishing brilliantly into the far corner.
Real Kashmir fought back after the break and reduced the deficit when Rohmingthanga inadvertently turned Lalvenhima’s cross into his own net.
But Nagaland United restored their two-goal cushion through Vanlalhriatzuala, who showed composure to round the advancing goalkeeper and finish into an empty net.
Real Kashmir will next host Sreenidi Deccan on November 7, while Nagaland United will play their first-ever home IFL match against Gokulam Kerala on November 14.
Full-time: Real Kashmir FC 1-3 Nagaland United SCGoals: Rohmingthanga (OG 59′) for Real Kashmir; JH Remlala (3′), Vanlalhriatzuala K (21′, 74′) for Nagaland United.
