The much-anticipated 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, organised by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) in collaboration with the Angami Students’ Union (ASU), was formally inaugurated today at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. Matches would also be played at the Chümoukedima Football Stadium, with the tournament scheduled to conclude on October 18.
Gracing the occasion as chief guest, Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir described the tournament as not just a celebration of football but also a solemn tribute to the memory of Late Kekuojalie Sachü and Late Vikhozo Yhoshü, the two martyrs who laid down their lives during the student protest of 1986, which was held for a cause deeply rooted in the Naga people’s journey for justice and peace.
“This gathering is a relentless reminder that their sacrifice is not forgotten,” Metsubo said, noting that their legacy has kept the spirit of sacrifice and loyalty to the Naga cause alive. He lauded NSF and ASU for turning the annual tournament into a beacon of remembrance, unity and shared purpose for the Naga people.
The Minister emphasized the significance of this silver jubilee edition, pointing to its theme “Goal for Peace”, which he said is a reminder that while football unites us on the field, the true goal must always be harmony off the field, regardless of the of the differences. He also praised this year’s Trophy Tour, which has reached Naga-inhabited areas of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and even Myanmar, calling it a journey of unity, remembrance and shared identity across borders.
Stating that football has long been cherished in Nagaland, Metsubo said the game has been a source of pride, joy, and identity for generations, from humble village fields to packed stadiums. He said this game has built friendships and broken barriers over the ages.
“Today, we are fortunate to live in an era where football is more organised, better supported, and more ambitious than ever. And with this growth comes a responsibility,” Metsubo cited.
He urged players to approach sports with professionalism, stressing the importance of discipline, training, and teamwork and develop skills that would build professional players fit for the international arena.
He said sports is not merely recreation, it is a platform to build careers, develop character and open doors beyond the borders.
“For our youth, sports in general, and football in particular, teaches resilience, focus, and hard work. It provides an outlet for energy and a shield against negative influences. Therefore, let us never underestimate its power to shape lives,” he added.
Acknowledging the enthusiasm of fans, he said they were not just spectators but an integral part of the team, keeping the spirit of the tournament alive for the past 25 years. To the players, he challenged to strive for international recognition.
“Let your journey inspire others to believe that excellence is possible from our hills, from our little towns and villages, that a Naga player can stand tall on the world stage. You have within you the talent, the skills, the passion. What you need now is vision, commitment, and the courage to dream big,” he noted.
The Minister also mentioned that no athlete can succeed without discipline, the ability to train hard, follow rules, and stay committed even in adversity. “And no game is complete without sportsmanship, the spirit of fairness, respect, and integrity whether you win or lose,” he added.
The Minister also highlighted that in Nagaland state too, local sports initiatives in schools and communities are building bridges, breaking stereotypes, and cultivating lifelong friendships. He said that culture, traditions, and values are deeply intertwined with sports.
Just as the festivals bring people together in celebration, he said tournaments like this bring people together. He also added that football has become a part of our cultural fabric — a living expression of Naga identity, resilience, and pride.
“The NSF Martyrs’ Trophy is more than a sporting event. It is a living legacy — a reminder that from tragedy, we can create triumph; that through football, we can honour the past while shaping a better future,” he cited.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
The Minister extended gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his unwavering support and commitment to growth of football in the state. “His vision has been instrumental in nurturing young talent, fostering sportsmanship, and building a vibrant football culture across Nagaland,” he said.
The Minister also credited Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his vision in promoting football in Nagaland, particularly through the introduction of the Nagaland Super League, which he called a cornerstone for professional football in the region. He further announced that the 25th edition of the Dr T Ao Trophy would be hosted in Mokokchung next year in honour of the legendary football icon.
In his welcome address, President of Angami Students’ Organization (ASO), Diezevisie Nakhro said that the football tournament has nurtured young talents and have patronage the message of unity. He said this trophy fosters unity and progressive activism through teamwork and healthy competition.
In his solidarity speech, President of Naga Students’ Federation, Mteisuding Reraang recalled the tragic incident of 1986, when Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima Village and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü of Kigwema Village were killed during a peaceful protest.
He said that on March 20, 1986, thousands of students marched in solidarity under the banner of the NSF to oppose the extension of the Disturbed Areas Act from 5 Km belt to 20 Km along the Indo-Burma border, and the introduction of the Indian Police Service cadre in Nagaland which threatened to marginalize our own people. “That day, peaceful voices of protest were met with indiscriminate firing by armed police forces from Alichen, claiming the precious lives of two young students. In their martyrdom, the despair of that dark time was transformed into renewed hope, courage, and an unyielding commitment to safeguard the aspirations of the Naga people,” he stated.
To the families of Lt. Kekuojalie Sachü and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü, NSF President said that words can never fill the void of losing a son, a brother and a friend. He acknowledged their sacrifice and said it was not in vain.
“On that fateful day, the entire Naga people lost two brothers, yet gained an everlasting responsibility: to keep alive their legacy of courage and their ultimate dream, the goal for peace. Generations to come shall remain indebted to them, holding their names in the annals of history and in the depths of our hearts” he cited.
He also added that the Federation also paid heartfelt tribute to all who were injured on that tragic day and to those who continue to bear the scars and lifelong injuries as a result of the violence inflicted upon innocent students.
Reraang said, “As we witness the 25th edition of this great tournament, we also witness the fulfilment of their dream where Naga youth come together through the spirit of sports, building bridges of unity, friendship, and peace.”
At the inaugural Fr. Innocent Sdb Principal, Don Bosco Hr. Sec. School, Kohima , President, All Nagaland Private School Association, Kohima Unit invoked God’s Blessing. A tribute song was presented by Thejasenuo Kire & Nourhengunuo Zatsu. Oath taking was done by Seyielhousa Keyho, Secretary, Games & Sports, ASU.
After the declaration of the tournament, the players were escorted by Jo Foundation Inclusive School Kohima .
CVYO thrash Amigos FC in opening match of NSF Trophy
In the opening match, Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO) handed a crushing 7-0 defeat to Amigos FC Tesophenyu.
CVYO’s forward Lunminlian (jersey no. 10) stole the show, scoring twice in the 4th and 38th minutes, and was later adjudged ‘Man of the Match’. His award was presented by ASU Tribunal General, Rokoketu Sechü.
The early breakthrough came in the 4th minute through Lunminlian, followed by Neikedozo Tsira (8) who doubled the lead in the 12th minute. William Neisial (15) extended the tally with a strike in the 25th minute, before Lunminlian added his second to make it 4-0 in the 38th minute.
Just before halftime, T. Zemik (19) found the net in the 40th minute, consolidating CVYO’s dominance. The onslaught continued in the second half as Kekhrie Tsira (11) scored in the 53rd minute, while Menuophretuo Chakrünuo (9) sealed the victory with the final goal in the 81st minute.
The emphatic win set the tone for CVYO as they advanced in the prestigious tournament, which commemorates the memory of student martyrs.
