ITANAGAR, Oct 3: Dodging past the wait with bated breath, the State’s biggest football rivalry - Indrajit Namchoom Arunachal League (INAL) is getting underway at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, Yupia tomorrow, with over a month-long action under the floodlights on the cards.
The opening match on Saturday will witness Patkai United FC take on Subansiri United FC at 7 pm, paving the way for an engrossing season that will feature 10 teams fighting it out across nine rounds and 45 matches. The top four sides will make it to the knockout phase, with the qualifiers scheduled for November 2 and 5, the eliminator on November 3 and the grand finale on November 8 at 7 pm.
Early fixtures to watch include Kameng United FC’s face-off against Dibang United FC on October 5, followed by Capital Complex FC taking on Monyul FC the same evening. A much-anticipated clash between Siang Warriors FC and Capital Complex FC on October 9 is already generating buzz among fans.
INAL, named after late Indrajit Namchoom – the first Arunachalee to don India’s colours on the international stage and a tireless football promoter – has grown into the State’s most awaited sporting spectacle. More than just a league, it has become a platform for unearthing young talent and nurturing grassroots football across Arunachal.
All matches will be staged under floodlights, amplifying the electric atmosphere for spectators. While thousands are expected to throng the stadium, fans at home will not miss out — as every match will be live-streamed on INAL’s official platforms. Tickets, including single match passes and season bundles, are now available on the Slot Allot app.
Calling on fans to turn up in large numbers, INAL authorities said the 2025 edition promises adrenaline-fuelled contests, fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments on the pitch.
“This league is about passion, pride and the dreams of Arunachal’s footballers,” said INAL chairman Okit Paling, urging supporters to cheer their teams on from the stands or screens.