The 27th Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) Trophy 2025 kicked off on October 14 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, with eleven teams set to compete for the coveted trophy. H Sethrongkyu Sangtam, MLA and Advisor for Information Technology & Communication, Economics & Statistics, and Evaluation, graced the inaugural programme as the Inaugural Guest.
In the opening match, Soyim Sports Society (SSS) defeated defending champion, Konyak Students Union Mokokchung (KSUM) 1–0 to register the first win of the tournament. The decisive goal came in the 57th minute from Chubalemba (Jersey no. 11), securing their first victory.
Last edition, KSUM emerged as the champions of the MDFA Trophy 2024 after defeating defending champions Telongjem FC by a narrow 1-0 margin in the finals at the same venue on October 30. The victory marked KSUM’s first title win in the tournament’s history, ending Telongjem’s three-year dominance.
The next matches of the 27th MDFA Trophy 2025 would be held on October 15, with Telongjem DC facing Super Seniors FC at 1 p.m. followed by Thunder Bolt FC taking on NU, Lumami at 2:30 p.m.
Emphasizing the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and dedication, H Sethrongkyu Sangtam said, “We are gathered here not just to compete with our opponent teams but to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the incredible talents our Naga youths display on this field.”
He observed that such tournaments reflected the true spirit of friendly competition and sportsmanship, which he found inspiring. Acknowledging the natural potential of Nagas in sports, he encouraged the youths to refine and polish the talents God has blessed them with, saying, “If you can identify and nurture your talent, you will find greater arenas at the international level, not just at the district, state, or national level.”
Advising the youths, Sangtam reminded that “nothing in life comes for free; every achievement and success has a price,” urging them to remain sincere, disciplined, and dedicated in all pursuits. He also cautioned them to stay away from harmful habits and noted that football can play a vital role in fostering unity among the people, something much needed at this time.
Sangtam also highlighted the state government’s commitment to youth development, stating that the Chief Minister has introduced various policies and programmes to provide ample opportunities and platforms for the youths in different fields. He urged the young people to make use of these opportunities for their growth and advancement.
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Temsuchuba, SDO (Civil) Mokokchung, in his exhortation, said that football has always held a special place in the hearts of the people of Mokokchung, producing many talented players who carried the district’s pride to greater platforms.
Urging young players to treat football as a teacher of teamwork, perseverance, humility, and courage, he encouraged them to play with dedication and integrity. He acknowledged the vital role of organizers and coaches in nurturing talent and called on spectators to continue their moral support. Emphasizing that sports build community and character, he urged all to uphold sportsmanship and unity through football.
Burakum Ao, Convenor of the Organising Committee, delivered the welcome address, followed by a special presentation titled “To Be Number One” by Asung Imchen.
The oath-taking ceremony was led by Bendangnukshi, Vice President (Technical), MDFA, while Tuden Longkumer performed as the Curtain Raiser. Okusa Toyota, State Bank of India (SBI), and Assam Rifles are the sponsors of the 27th MDFA Trophy 2025.
Jungpetrong Longkumer, Team Manager of SSS, expressed his pride over the team’s first win against defending champions KSUM. He acknowledged that KSUM is a strong side, describing the match as a tough contest. “My boys played exceptionally well and gave their best. Victory is ultimately in God’s hands, but I am proud of the performance we delivered,” he said.
When asked about their upcoming matches, Longkumer said, “Let’s see. The players are gradually building their confidence, and the MDFA Trophy provides them with the perfect platform to grow.” He added that he hopes this experience will help the players develop further and eventually progress to bigger leagues like the NSL and ISL. He also encouraged the players to continue giving their hard work on the field to achieve their goals.
Kapzei, captain of KSUM, speaking to the media after their 0–1 loss to Soyim Sports Society (SSS), said that as defending champions, the result was disappointing. “We didn’t expect this defeat, but it happens in the game. We appreciate SSS for their brilliant performance, and there are no excuses for our loss,” he added.
He clarified that many of KSUM’s main players are still returning from the ongoing M Noke Wangnao Memorial Trophy in Mon District, and that only 11 players were available for their opening match, with no substitutes. The rest of the squad is expected to arrive tomorrow.
P Leiwang, team manager of KSUM, stated that the loss is not the end of the tournament and expressed confidence in the team. “We acknowledge SSS’s victory and are hopeful that the return of our players will strengthen our squad. In the next match against Team Gilgal, we will give our best,” he said.
