Mon defeat Tuensang 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to retain the Dr T. Ao Trophy for another year
MOKOKCHUNG — Mon retained the Dr. T Ao Inter-District Football Tournament title after defeating Tuensang 4–2 in a penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw in the grand final of the 25th edition, held at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, on Thursday.
In a final befitting the tournament’s Silver Jubilee occasion, two determined sides traded blows, defended resolutely and refused to yield until the very last moment.
When the shootout arrived, it was Mon who kept their composure from the spot, retaining the coveted Dr. T. Ao Trophy and completing back-to-back titles.
Mon struck first in the 10th minute. An own goal, credited to Namang, handed the defending champions an early advantage and put Tuensang under immediate pressure.
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The goal gave Mon the platform they needed, allowing them to settle into the contest and protect their lead through a disciplined defensive shape.
Tuensang, however, refused to let the final slip away. Trailing by a goal, they continued to press forward, creating openings and forcing Mon to defend deeper as the match progressed.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 85th minute, when Ayenmongba found the net to draw Tuensang level. The equaliser transformed the atmosphere at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, setting up a tense final stretch in which both teams chased a late winner.
Despite the urgency and the chances that followed, neither Mon nor Tuensang could break the deadlock before the final whistle. With the score locked at 1–1 after regulation time, the Silver Jubilee final was destined to be decided from twelve yards.
Mon held their nerve in the shootout, converting four penalties against Tuensang’s two to seal the championship. The victory marked Mon’s second consecutive title, following another hard-fought campaign in the inter-district tournament.
Despite missing out on the trophy, Tuensang pushed the defending champions throughout the final and forced them to settle the contest through penalties.
The next edition of the tournament will be hosted by the Chümoukedima District Football Association, which will now begin preparations to carry forward the legacy of one of Nagaland’s most celebrated football competitions.
The Golden Boot award went to Imnatoshi of Mokokchung, while Eshong Konyak of Mon received the Golden Ball. Imtikumzuk of Tuensang was named Best Goalkeeper (Golden Glove), Haokhohen of Peren won the Best Defender award, and Mughahuto of Zunheboto was named Best Midfielder.