Barak Football club, founded in 2006 in the Peren district, Barak FC has long been a dominant force in the state’s football scene for years. With a history of triumphs, Barak FC has claimed prestigious title, including the Nagaland Premier League (2012), multiple NSF Martyrs Cup victory, several Classic cup championships highlighted by a dominant streak from 2014 to 2016 and the captain kenguruse trophy in 2022.
On April 1, 2025 Barak FC achieved a historic milestone by securing the inaugural Nagaland super league (NSL) title, cementing their legacy as the league’s first ever champions.
The Chumoukedima Football Stadium buzzed with electrifying energy on that historic Tuesday. A sold out crowd, with many more spectators perched on nearby vintage points, witnessed a compelling final clash between Barak FC and Longterok FC. Online viewers soared, with over 50,000 fans turning in via livestream, under-scoring the immense popularity and anticipation surrounding the NSL final.
Barak FC entered the final as the team to beat. Having dominated the league stage, securing the top spot with an impressive 29 points from12 matches (nine wins, two draws, and only one loss), they carried formidable momentum. Their journey to the finals saw them overcome Nagaland United Sport Club (NUSC) in a tense play off encounter decided by penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, demonstrating their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
The final itself was a hard-fought contest. The first half remained goalless, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and testing each other’s defences. The breakthrough for Brak FC came early in the second half, at 52 minutes, when Mangkholen (jersey No.44) found the back of the net, igniting celebration among the Barak FC supporters. The momentum shifted decisively in Barak’s Favor. In the 65 minutes, Toka, (jersey No.20) doubled their lead with a clinical finish, further tightening their grip on the championship, substitute Lun kuki (jersey No. 66) then sealed the victory in the 84 minutes, just moments after coming onto the pitch, sending waves of elation through the Barak FC camp.
Despite falling behind 3-0, Longterok FC showed commendable fighting spirit and managed to pull a goal in the 95 minutes through their captain, K Assumi. However, it proved to be a mere consolation as the final whistle blew, confirming Barak FC as the first ever Nagaland Super League Champions. Key players shone brightly for Barak FC throughout the tournament and in the final. Toka A Achumi, the league’s highest goal scorer with 13 goals (including two hat- tricks) and four men of the match awards. The experienced captain, Kevisanyu Peseyie, provided stability and leadership in midfield. In the final Kenumdi (jersey No23) was recognised for his outstanding performance and awarded the man of the match.
The significance of this victory extends beyond lifting the inaugural NSL trophy. By virtue of the championship, Barak FC has earned the historical opportunity to represent Nagaland in the prestigious I-League qualifiers, marking a monumental step forward for the club and for football in the states. This achievement signifies the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a winning mentality within the Barak FC.
The successful organisation of the inaugural Nagaland Super league had been widely regarded as a landmark event for football in the state. The enthusiastic participation of the fans, both in stadium and online, highlight the deep passion for football in Nagaland. Dignitaries, including Nagaland’s Deputy Chief Minister and the Secretary General of the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), graced the closing ceremony, acknowledging the success of the league and congratulating Barak FC on their historic win. The AIFF representative assured continued support for football development in the region and hoped to see players from Nagaland competing in the Indian Super League (ISL) and beyond. There were also calls for the development of better infrastructure, including a larger stadium, to accommodate the growing enthusiasm for football in the state.
Barak FC’s journey to becoming the first NSL champion is a statement to their enduring legacy in Nagaland football.