Natak FC clinch the first Above 35 League Cup with a 4–2 penalty shootout win over Nizams FC after a 1–1 draw in the final.
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DIMAPUR — Natak FC lifted the first edition of the Above 35 League (ATL) Cup after defeating Nizams FC 4–2 in a penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw in the final at Chümoukedima Stadium on November 15.
According to an update, both teams started strongly, creating several opportunities but failing to convert in an evenly contested opening phase. Natak FC broke the deadlock just before halftime to take a narrow lead into the break.
In the second half, Nizams FC returned with renewed urgency, dominating possession and pressing high in search of an equaliser. Their persistence paid off with 10 minutes remaining as they levelled the score at 1–1.
With no further goals scored, the match went into a penalty shootout. Natak FC held their composure, converting four penalties to Nizams FC’s two, clinching a hard-fought victory and the championship title.
The ATL Cup commenced on September 20 with eight teams vying for the title. Unlike the regular ATL league, which follows a two-leg home-and-away format, this edition used a shorter structure where each team played once.
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