Aizawl FC begin their season with 1-2 defeat to Chanmari FC in Aizawl Derby

AIZAWL FC HAVE begun their season with a stumble, losing to local rivals Chanmari FC 1-2 in their first match of the Independence Day Football Tournament.

The Federation Cup runner-ups and Mizoram Premier League defending champions took to the pitch in this Derby at the Lammual Stadium minus most of their main players that were with them during the past season. And early on they were left trailing by two strikes from Chanmari's Malsawmfela (25') and Fela Zote (36').

Towards the end of the half Aizawl got one goal back, thanks to Chullova finding the net 86 minutes in, which riled up the fans who screamed for a quick equaliser. But it wasn't to be and the Peoples' Club finished their first game of the season in a loss. 

The Independence Day Football Tournament is a prestigious trophy in Mizoram football, and they sometimes invite clubs from outside the state as well. With demands growing to reinstate Aizawl FC in I-League following their exploits in the Federation Cup, their matches are undergoing special scrutiny from football fans. The club is also taking these games seriously as a precursor to their debut appearance in the Durand Cup; another prestigious national level trophy that has never seen the participation of a club from Mizoram before.