The 7th edition of the Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament (MIWFT) 2026 commenced today at Senayangba Government Higher Secondary School ground , Ungma. The tournament is being organized by the Marepkong Youth Association (MYA) under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA).
Lanuakum, Deputy Chairperson of Mokokchung Municipal Council, graced the inaugural programme as the Guest of Honour. The tournament carries a total prize pool of ₹90,000. The champions will receive ₹50,000 along with a certificate, while the runners-up will be awarded ₹30,000 with citation. Individual awards will also be presented in categories including Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper, Player of the Tournament, Best Midfielder, and Highest Goal Scorer.
In his address, Lanuakum noted that the tournament has been conducted consistently over the years, with only one edition missed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged the continued efforts of the organisers, stating that the event has seen increasing participation and the introduction of additional awards over time. He appreciated the dedication, time, and financial commitment involved in organising the tournament, adding that such initiatives provide an important platform for young footballers.
He further highlighted the importance of discipline and punctuality among players, stating that talent alone is not sufficient without the right attitude. He urged both organizers and participants to uphold discipline and contribute responsibly to the smooth conduct of the tournament.
The programme also featured exhortations by Imtisusang Imsong, Tatar of Ungma Village Council; N Imtitoshi, Chairman of Kumlong Ward; and N Akok Longkumer, President of MDFA. Bendangsunep, Convenor of the tournament, delivered the welcome address. The programme was compered by Supongtila and Ngangshimongba, while the invocation was pronounced by Pastor Teyalo Seb of Tenyimi Church, Mokokchung. A solo performance was presented by Sentimenla. The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Takalong Pongen, President of MYA, following which the tournament was officially declared open with the ceremonial kick-off by the Guest of Honour.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
In the opening match, Tongdentsuyong defeated defending champion, Dilong 4–1. Opanglemzung opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, followed by goals from Chasu (13’), Neili (30’), and Toshimongba (41’). Dilong’s lone goal was scored by Bendangsunep in the 18th minute.
In the second match, Penli registered a 3–1 win over Alempang. Ayimtiba gave Penli the lead in the 10th minute, while Kito and Moachang added to the tally around the 30th minute. Toshimongba scored in the 39th minute to complete Penli’s scoring. Alempang’s goal came through Chubatemsu in the 22nd minute.
In the third match, Sangtemla defeated Sungkomen 4–2. Shamoi scored twice in the 15th minute and in added time of the first half (30+2’). Opangtemjen (41’) and Rongsenchiba (44’) added further goals. For Sungkomen, Atochang scored in the 6th minute and Imtisangba netted in the 19th minute.
The tournament will continue on Day Two with three fixtures scheduled at the same venue. Marepkong will take on Mongsenbai in the first match at 11 a.m. This will be followed by Yimyu facing Lijaba Lijen at 12:30 p.m. In the final match of the day, Arkong will play against Majakong at 2 p.m.
