3rd SYU Open Futsal Tournament kicks off in Mokokchung

Published on Apr 28, 2025

Temsuchuba Jamir with MDFA president and players before kick-off of the SYU Open Futsal Tourney at Mokokchung on Monday.
MOKOKCHUNG — The third edition of the SYU Open Futsal Tournament, organised by the Salangtem Youth Union (SYU) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), commenced on Monday at Mojabi Futsal Turf, Mokokchung.
Held on the theme “Focus to Endure”, the tournament drew 19 teams from within and beyond the district competing for the prestigious title.
Temsuchuba Jamir, SDO (Civil), Mokokchung, the guest of honour for the opening ceremony, in his address, lauded SYU’s unity and consistency in hosting the tournament for the third consecutive year. Jamir said the tournament provides a vital platform for young players to advance their careers through MDFA’s support.
“Continue to groom the youngsters,” he urged, and stressed the need for Mokokchung to reclaim its past vibrancy in sports, music, and other fields.
He lamented the “negative mindset” and generational gap that have stalled progress, attributing it to complacency rooted in past glories.
“Pride has caused us to miss the bus”, he said, and called on the youths to unite and excel in their roles to drive success.
MDFA president N Akok Longkumer echoed the call for revitalisation, acknowledging the significant resources required to organise events like the SYU Futsal Tournament.

He lauded SYU’s sacrifices in fostering a sports culture among youth and pledged MDFA’s unwavering support.
“Football is the world’s most popular sport, and the government now recognises sports as an industry”, Longkumer said, highlighting the recent Nagaland Super League (NSL), where scouted players secured professional contracts with reputed clubs.
He urged participants to deliver standout performances, noting that the tournament could be a stepping stone to professional careers.
He also announced the launch of zonal associations, with four zones already formalised and five in progress, to streamline talent development.
Additionally, he underscored on the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Central Registration System (CRS), a mandatory requirement for players in inter-district tournaments.
“Without a CRS number, players cannot compete,” he said, and informed that Nagaland currently has 528 registered soccer players and 138 futsal players.
Longkumer invited players needing CRS registration to approach MDFA for assistance.
The tournament, running through April 30, promises intense competition as teams vie for cash prizes—INR 60,000 for the champions, INR 40,000 for runners-up, and INR 10,000 for third place—along with individual awards.