G Sports FC emerged champions of the 10th Edition of the Capt (Late) N Kengurüse, MVC Memorial Football Tournament 2026-27, defeating Head Hunters FC 3-0 in the grand finale held at IG Stadium, Kohima, on November 9.
Organised under the aegis of the Spear Corps, Indian Army and Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) and in collaboration with the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), the tournament commenced on November 2 and concluded with the grand finale on November 9. The event was supported by the Kohima District Football Association and Chümoukedima District Football Association.
G Sports FC made an explosive start to the final, with Ganchui finding the net in the very first minute to give his side an early lead. Maintaining their attacking momentum, Mosse doubled the advantage in the 15th minute before scoring again in the 23rd minute to complete his brace and put G Sports FC firmly in control.
Head Hunters FC struggled to find a breakthrough against a disciplined G Sports FC defence. The match saw Vila of G Sports FC receive a yellow card in the 14th minute, while Pursunep of Head Hunters FC was shown a red card in the 90+3rd minute.
G Sports FC maintained their commanding three-goal advantage until the final whistle, sealing a convincing 3-0 victory to lift the championship trophy.
As champions, G Sports FC received a cash prize of Rs. 4,00,000.
Addressing the grand finale of the 10th Edition of the Capt (Late) N Kengurüse, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, lauded the Indian Army and uniformed services for their contributions towards strengthening civil-military relations and promoting youth development through sports in Nagaland.
Metha said the tournament was contributing beyond sports by fostering stronger ties between the civilian and military communities.
Conveying the best wishes and greetings of Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, Metha expressed gratitude to the Indian Army and all ranks involved in organising the tournament, appreciating their efforts in making the event a grand success.
He observed that the relationship between civilians and the Army had undergone significant changes over the years, recalling a time when there were challenges and a trust deficit. However, he said the benefits and rewards of peace had brought the communities closer.
Metha commended the Army and Assam Rifles for their positive contributions to society, particularly in football, youth grooming and creating platforms for young people across Nagaland to participate in various activities.
He said sports and youth engagements were effective means of building trust, confidence and, most importantly, a sense of belonging, while also bringing young people closer to the national mainstream and bridging the gap between the mainland and the Northeast.
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Paying tribute to the late Captain N Kengurüse, MVC, Metha recalled the solemn occasion when his mortal remains were brought back to Nagaland wrapped in the national flag. He said the occasion was marked by sadness but also immense pride over the supreme sacrifice made by the war hero in service of the nation.
Describing Kengurüse as a Mahavir Chakra recipient and a legendary figure whose contributions were recognised across the country, Metha said his sacrifice and service continued to command respect and honour.
He also expressed gratitude to the family of the late Captain, acknowledging the presence of his parents and family members, and said their contribution in giving their son to the nation was a matter of great honour and privilege.
Encouraging the sporting community to continue upholding the Olympic spirit, Metha referred to the Olympic motto, Citius, Altius, Fortius — Faster, Higher, Stronger — as the guiding ambition of sports. He said sports not only encouraged individuals to excel but also brought people together, united communities and fostered a sense of oneness.
The closing ceremony began with a welcome address by the Chief Host, Major General HS Mavi, Inspector General Assam Rifles (North), followed by an opening prayer led by Pastor Lhoukuolie Khro.
A video presentation showcasing highlights of the tournament was screened, followed by a musical performance by Samuel Subba.
Musical performances by Lochumbeni Kikon and The Forge Band added to the occasion, while an animated video depicting the life and valour of Late Captain N Kengurüse, MVC, paid tribute to his courage, sacrifice and service to the nation.
The half-time programme featured performances by the Assam Rifles Pipe Band and Jazz Band, adding to the ceremonial atmosphere of the grand finale.
G Sports FC were crowned champions of the 10th Edition of the Capt (Late) N Kengurüse, MVC Memorial Football Tournament, receiving a cash prize of Rs. 4 lakh, while Head Hunters FC finished as runners-up with Rs. 3 lakh at the grand finale.
Peren District FC secured the third position and received Rs. 1 lakh, while Satakha FC finished fourth with a cash prize of Rs. 75,000.
The individual awards recognised outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Thanglenhao of Head Hunters FC won the Golden Boot award for scoring 11 goals and received Rs. 35,000.
Neithovilie of G Sports FC was adjudged Best Goalkeeper (Golden Glove), receiving Rs. 25,000, while Swayibe of Peren District FC bagged the Best Defender award with Rs. 25,000.
Pulovi of Satakha FC received the Best Midfielder award, carrying a cash prize of Rs. 25,000, while Viselie Vasa of G Sports FC was named Golden Ball winner and received Rs. 35,000.
Team Standings and Prize Money
Champions: G Sports FC – Rs. 4,00,000
First Runners-up: Head Hunters FC – Rs. 3,00,000
Second Runners-up: Peren District FC – Rs. 1,00,000
Fourth Position: Satakha FC – Rs. 75,000
