IFL 2026-27: The league kicks off with Real Kashmir vs Nagaland United

Founded in 2024, Nagaland United is playing in the IFL just two years after its establishment, bringing national league football to the state for the first time.

Updated : Oct 29, 2026 22:45 IST , Srinagar - 3 MINS READ

Nagaland United is hoping to leave its mark on the Indian Football League in its first season. NUSC joined the league after a goodwill agreement with Aizawl FC. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Former champions Real Kashmir FC (RKFC) will face debutants Nagaland United SC (NUSC) in the opening match of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 on Friday.

Real Kashmir endured a challenging start to the 2025–26 season, finishing the initial league phase in the lower half of the table and being drawn into the relegation phase. However, the Snow Leopards responded impressively at the right time under head coach Ishfaq Ahmed, securing its place in the league for another season.

“The players are the same ones who were at Aizawl FC, so we know most of them, but a completely new coach has taken over with a new style,” Ishfaq said on the eve of the match.

“Personally, I don’t have any idea how they will set up, but we are prepared. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter, we want to play good, aggressive football at home, and we are ready for that,” he added

Asked about the fans and the support they have given the club over the years, Ishfaq said, “The fans stood by us last year during difficult times and came out in numbers. This year, we finally have a proper league campaign with ten matches here. I know Kashmiri people love football, and I want to invite them to bring their families and come to the stadium.”

For NUSC, the fixture represents a landmark moment in the club’s short history. Founded in 2024, the club is playing in the IFL just two years after its establishment, bringing national league football to a state that has waited 78 years for representation in the competition.

ALSO READ:Adrian Luna interview - On love for Kerala Blasters, ownership change, hopes for new ISL season

The team from Nagaland’s entry into the IFL was facilitated through a goodwill agreement with Aizawl FC, approved by the All India Football Federation, on September 9. Under the arrangement, Nagaland United acquired Aizawl’s sporting rights for the league.

The team has roped in Kaizad Ambapardiwalla as the head coach for the season. Kaizad served as Jamshedpur FC's head coach during its quarterfinal run in the Durand Cup earlier in the year.

Speaking ahead of its first match in a national league, Kaizad said, “The team is in a positive mindset. We are focused on building a strong, competitive team for the season. Despite limited time, our main focus during training has been on discipline, the right attitude, and developing a winning mentality.

“Real Kashmir FC is an experienced side, but our players are well prepared. We have trained well over the past week and have a clear plan for the game. Nagaland United have not come to the IFL just to participate; we are here to compete and win,” Kaizad added.

The club will be led by defender Rohmingthanga, who has experience playing for Aizawl FC in the I-League. RKFC, on the other hand, have lost its captain from last season, Mohammad Inam, who signed for ISL side Punjab FC. But the side has added firepower to its attack in the form of experienced striker Marcus Joseph, along with some talented domestic players.