RKFC to face Nagaland United in IFL opener
Srinagar, Oct 29: Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) will take on Nagaland United FC in the opening match of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 season at TRC Ground, Srinagar, on Friday (October 30).
The match will kick off at 6:30 pm and will be played under floodlights. The host club has made the necessary arrangements with support from the administration, particularly the J&K Sports Council, J&K Police and other departments.
RKFC will be looking to begin its campaign on a positive note in the league, formerly known as the I-League. The squad comprises local, national and international players, with Ishfaq Ahmad serving as head coach.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ishfaq described Nagaland United FC as a good opponent despite the team’s first appearance in the IFL. He said RKFC was ready for the challenge and expressed hope that the home side would secure a favourable result.
Arshad Nizam Shawl, owner of Real Kashmir FC, said the club’s vision extended beyond football, with a focus on creating opportunities for young people and showcasing local talent.
“Real Kashmir FC has always stood for something bigger than football. Our vision is to create opportunities for the youth of Kashmir, showcase their extraordinary talent and demonstrate to the world the potential of our people. We want the world to see Kashmir through the lens of football — a story of hope, resilience and aspiration. Every match is an opportunity to inspire the next generation and bring people together through sport,” Shawl said.
The club also expressed gratitude to Secretary Tazayun Mukhtar and the J&K Sports Council for their support and cooperation in facilitating its operations and promoting football in the region.
“We are thankful to Sarmad Hafeez, Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, and Tazayun Mukhtar, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, for their encouragement and continued cooperation. Their support is invaluable as we work towards developing football, nurturing young talent and creating greater opportunities for aspiring players across Jammu and Kashmir,” Shawl added.
RKFC is the only club from Jammu and Kashmir participating in the IFL and has been providing a platform for local footballers to showcase their talent.
The club has appealed to football enthusiasts to turn up in large numbers at TRC Ground and support the home team in its opening fixture.
