Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zaleo Rio, inaugurated the third edition of the Nagaland State Futsal Championship 2023 at JJ Arena in Chumoukedima. During his address at the event, Zaleo Rio noted that while futsal has been a popular sport worldwide for over a decade, it is relatively new to the state of Nagaland and the northeastern region of India. He emphasized that with a serious and dedicated approach to futsal from the beginning, Nagaland has the potential to excel not only at the national level but also on the international stage.
Zaleo expressed his belief in the talent and potential of Naga youth in the discipline of futsal and hoped to witness improved performances from the players in the coming days. He aspired to see Nagaland become a champion in the country and eventually represent India at the international level. The four-day championship is organized by the Nagaland Football Association and hosted by the Chumoukedima District Football Association, featuring the participation of 16 teams.
This event reflects the growing interest in futsal in Nagaland and the determination to develop local talent in this sport.