Kohima: Nagaland has been chosen to host the first edition of the Dr T Ao Junior Girls’ National Football Championship in November 2025, following its approval by the Executive Committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
The decision was confirmed by Nagaland Football Association (NFA) president Neibou Sekhose following an AIFF executive meeting held on July 2, 2025. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the second week of November.
The championship has been named in honour of Dr Talimeren Ao, a pioneering figure in Indian football. In 2024, the AIFF had announced its decision to rename the Junior Girls’ National Championship as the Dr Talimeren Ao National Football Championship for Junior Girls, recognising his iconic contribution to the sport.
Dr Ao was India’s first football team captain and served as the country’s flag-bearer at the 1948 London Olympics. He remains a symbol of sporting excellence and pride, particularly for the people of Nagaland and the Northeast.
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