NACO, NESU and ESU victorious in 18th Manipur State League
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 25 2026: Nambul Mapal Athletic & Cultural Organisation (NACO) ended their three game losing run in the 18th Manipur State League Group A by defeating FC Raengdai this morning at Artificial Turf Ground, Lamlong Thongkhong.

The day also saw North Eastern Sporting Union (NESU), Khurai securing their third win in four matches while Eastern Sporting Union (ESU), Wangkhei Palace Compound sealed 2-1 comeback win to stretch their winning run to four games on the trot in the other Group A matches of the day.

NACO end three game losing run

The first match of the day saw NACO going ahead after 13 minutes thanks to a clinical finish from Khwairakpam Suraj Singh but FC Raengdai.

FC Raengdai fought back and closed the gap with Reijipou Gangmei scoring the equaliser in the 45th minute but the parity was shortlived as Moirangthem Dingku Meitei scored three minutes into the added time before the break to retain the lead for NACO .

Neither team managed to convert their chances in the second half and eventually NACO ended their winless run after three games.

NESU return to winning ways

In the second match, NESU who went down 1-3 to ESU in the previous outing, returned to winning ways by handing XI Star SU a 3-0 defeat.

Maibam David starred in the match scoring a goal each side of the break (19', 68') before Thangjam Majaibungo rounded off the scoring in the 75th minute.

ESU cruise to fourth win

Later in the day, ESU fought back from a goal down to beat Rahee UC 2-1 and earned their fourth straight victory.

Kuikui Lamlang put Rahee UC ahead within 15 minutes but their momentum did not last long and it was Taj Khan who drew level in the 62nd minute for ESU before Laishram Yaiphaba Khuman overturned the lead two minutes later.

ESU then held onto their lead to extend their winning run.

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