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KOHIMA — In the final of the 24th NSF Martyrs' Memorial Trophy played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, Sechü Zubza FC claimed the title on Saturday afternoon. This edition featured 43 teams from Nagaland and Manipur competing for the coveted trophy.
Sechü Zubza FC quickly took control of the match, with Thejasetuo Gwire opening the scoring in the 4th minute. Khiuwangbo Kaurinta then doubled the lead in the 19th minute, putting the team firmly in the driver's seat.
However, a dramatic turn occurred in nearly stoppage time of the first half, when Hemping of Sechü Zubza FC received a red card after accumulating two yellow cards. This left the team to play with ten men for the remainder of the match.
In the second half, Asüfü Football Academy (AFA) from Manipur capitalised on their numerical advantage. Suzülo Mao found the back of the net in the 58th minute, setting up a tense final half-hour.
However, despite relentless pressure from AFA, Sechü Zubza FC's defence held firm, maintaining their lead until the final whistle.
Sechü Zubza FC's victory earned them a prize of INR 3,00,000, along with the trophy and a citation. Asüfü Football Academy, despite their valiant effort, had to settle for the runners-up position and a cash prize of INR 1,80,000.
The losing semi-finalists, Asüfu Christian Institute and Circle FC Chedema, were awarded INR 40,000 each, while the losing quarter-finalists—Michazou FC, Red Scars FC, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS), and Football 4 Change Academy (F4C Academy)—received INR 25,000 each.
The individual awards also recognised standout performances, with INR 10,000 awarded to each individual winner.
The best custodian went to Thomas Sagolaem from Asüfü Christian Institute, while the best defender was awarded to Walkhom Arunkumar from Asüfü Football Academy. The best midfielder award was claimed by Mathanmi Ninshen, also from Asüfü Football Academy.
The top scorers included P Sorormi Thinsang from Asüfü Football Academy, Thoungoumang Touthang from Delai FC, and VS Thotkadhar Zimik from Circle FC Chedema, all tied with six goals.
The player of the tournament was Atlanson Kharmaw from Sechü Zubza FC, who received INR 50,000 for his outstanding contributions.
The final was attended by KG Kenye, Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs.
Speaking on the occasion, he recalled the tragic events of March 20, 1986, when Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü and Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü lost their lives during a peaceful protest organised by the Naga Students Federation (NSF) against the extension of the disturbed area belt along the Indo-Myanmar border and the induction of IPS cadre into the Nagaland Police.
Kenye emphasised the importance of continuing the tournament in their memory as a symbol of unity for the Naga people.
The event also featured a special appearance by Miss Grand India Nagaland 2024, Neiketuno Sechü, who is also Miss Nagaland 2023 and Miss Chümoukedima 2023.