Football will take centre stage in Nagaland next week as Aizawl FC and Nagaland United Sports Club prepare to face off in a special exhibition match aimed at promoting peace, unity and community welfare.
The fixture, scheduled for June 6 at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium, forms part of the "Peace Pays" initiative, a campaign that seeks to use football as a bridge between communities across the Northeast. Kick-off is set for 7 pm, with organisers expecting strong participation from football fans and local residents.
More than just a football match
According to The Morung Express, billed under the theme "Two Clubs. One Cause", the event is designed to demonstrate the power of sport in bringing people together. Organisers said the initiative focuses on promoting harmony, compassion and regional solidarity while also supporting a charitable cause.
Tickets have been priced at just Rs 20 to encourage maximum public participation. The proceeds generated from the match will be donated to an orphanage, giving the event a social dimension beyond the action on the pitch.
The exhibition game is expected to feature some of the finest football talent from Mizoram and Nagaland, offering supporters an opportunity to witness competitive football while contributing to a meaningful cause.
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Tribute to a respected football figure
According to The Morung Express, the programme will also honour the memory of the late N. William Koso, one of Nagaland's most respected football personalities. Koso served as assistant coach of Aizawl FC and was a member of the governing body of the Nagaland Super League.
Widely regarded for his contribution to football development in the region, Koso played a key role in nurturing talent and strengthening ties between football communities across the Northeast.
Organisers said the tribute reflects the values of dedication, unity and sportsmanship that the Football for Peace initiative seeks to promote.
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A wider Football for Peace campaign
According to The Morung Express, the Chümoukedima encounter is part of a broader football outreach programme involving Aizawl FC. Before arriving in Chümoukedima, the Mizoram-based club will travel to the Mon district for another exhibition fixture against Mon XI at Pangti Astro Turf on June 2.
The matches are expected to strengthen football's grassroots presence in the region while fostering closer ties between communities through sport.
With football continuing to enjoy immense popularity across the Northeast, organisers hope the initiative will serve as a reminder that the game can be a powerful tool for social change, community engagement and regional unity.
