IFL 2026-27: Nagaland United makes debut memorable with a 3-1 win over Real Kashmir

Vanlalhriatzuala K scored once in each half for Nagaland United to secure a win for his club against Real Kashmir. | Photo Credit: IFL Media

Debutant Nagaland United SC made a memorable start to its Indian Football League (IFL) 2026–27 campaign wth an impressive 3-1 win over Real Kashmir FC in the season-opener at the TRC Stadium here on Friday.

JH Remlala gave the visiting side an early lead in the third minute before Vanlalhriatzuala K doubled their advantage in the 21st minute.

Real Kashmir reduced the deficit through an own goal by Nagaland United captain Rohmingthanga in the 59th minute, but Vanlalhriatzuala struck again in the 74th minute to restore the two-goal cushion and seal all three points for the debutant.

Nagaland United made a flying start when a long throw-in from the left by Stephen Lalrinfela caused confusion inside the Real Kashmir penalty area. Remlala, after an initial block, made no mistake from close range, firing the ball into the roof of the net.

Though Real Kashmir gradually settled into the contest, regular counterattacks paid dividends for Nagaland United in the 21st minute with a well-worked move involving just five passes.

Vincent Lalduhawma brought down an aerial ball with his chest and guided it forward towards Zomuansanga, who returned the pass to the forward. Vincent then played the ball into space on the right for Vanlalhriatzuala, who unleashed a superb right-footed finish into the far corner to make it 2-0.

Real Kashmir began the second half with greater urgency, and its persistence paid off in the 59th minute. Lalvenhima delivered a teasing cross from the right, and Nagaland United captain Rohmingthanga, attempting to clear the danger, inadvertently directed the ball into his own net.

Nagaland United, looking initially rattled, regrouped and restored its two-goal lead. Zomuansanga produced a wonderful through ball from the right to find Vanlalhriatzuala, who showed excellent composure to beat the advancing goalkeeper before cutting the ball back and finishing into the empty net.

Real Kashmir will host Sreenidi Deccan in its next match on November 7, while Nagaland United will host its first-ever home game in the IFL, against Gokulam Kerala on November 14.

Match score

Real Kashmir FC 1 (Rohmingthanga 59’(OG)) bt Nagaland United SC – 3 (JH Remlala 3’, Vanlalhriatzuala K 21’, 74’)