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Members of ‘Italy’ pose with their citations and trophy at the Phesa World Cup at the St. Paul stadium on August 15.[/caption]
Kohima, Aug. 16 (EMN): Four-time World Cup champions Italy’s absence this year might have left loyal fans disheartened but there was no stopping for team Italy at the Phesa World Cup, who were tough contenders against the Spaniards. Italy team took home the trophy of the Phesa World Cup defeating Spain 3-1 via penalty here at St. Paul Stadium on August 15 evening.
The match ended in a stalemate after Kedikhrie Zashumo managed to strike for the team Italy in the last 30 seconds during the second half. Earlier, Neisaleto scored a goal for Spain during the first half in the 25th minute. In the penalty shootout, Italians won via tiebreaker 3-1.
Earlier in the semi-finals, Spain beat Japan and Italy beat Argentina to reach finals both matches via tie breaker.
The golden glove was awarded to Vimetsito Motonyii of Japan team, while the golden boot was conferred to Neisaleto Kuotsu of Spain team with six goals.
Neikehiezo Khale from Spain team was awarded the young player award and the golden ball was given to Kevi Chuse from team Italy. The trophies along with cash prizes were given away by the special guest.
The World Cup trophy replica made out of the Plaster of Paris was sculptured by Sekrese Mejura, an artist from Phesama village costing around INR 17000 thousand, an official in the organising team informed.
Speaking at the closing function, special guest and president of Phesama youth organisation, Vito-o Kuotsu, said football is one of the most expensive and highest paid games internationally. He encouraged the players to passionately practice and advanced in the game to reach greater platforms.
He also said that aftermath the tournament would be a good time to select the best players from different teams to represent the village for other tournaments in the coming days.
While pointing that the village in the past and present has continually produced good sportspersons in different fields and football in particular, he lamented on the lack of a spacious and quality playground. He, therefore, urged the elders, educated persons, and concerned villagers to take stock of the same.
Encouraging the players to keep the game spirit alive, Koutsu exhorted the players to learn from the tournament while leaving the place considering oneself as winners.
The closing function was chaired by Thejanguzo Zashumo and the benediction was pronounced by Rokolhoubei Chuse. Neisalie Mejura from the organising team delivered the vote of thanks. VZ Angami, Commandant of 10 IR Bn, and his wife along with other sponsors and village elders attended the closing function.