Defending champion N Obang MFT, on Saturday, retained the title at the 13th Marsosang Football Trophy, organised by Rocky Club, Chuchuyimlang.
In a nail-biting final match, the defending champions, N. Obang Memorial Football Team (MFT), secured victory over Team Gilgal in a penalty shootout, ending with a score of 5-4. The intense clash unfolded over 90 minutes, plus 6 minutes of added time and an extra 7 + 7 minutes, with no goals scored during regulation play.
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N. Jamonger Ao, Assistant Director of Food & Civil Supplies in Mokokchung, Nagaland, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, Ao highlighted the historical tendency for parents to prioritize jobs over sports careers for their children. He urged aspiring athletes to be resolute in their profession drawing inspiration from international football icons like Ronaldo, Messi, and Sadio Mane. He emphasized the transformative impact sports can have on communities, citing examples of development through academies and hospitals.
Encouraging parents to recognize and support their children’s sporting talents, Jamonger Ao stressed the importance of education. He expressed optimism that the emergence of an international player from the state could swiftly contribute to its development. The Chief Guest underscored the significance of balance in life, encompassing lifestyle choices, technology use, and societal contributions. Ao called on players to honour their profession with respect, skill, and sportsmanship.
13th Marsosang Football Trophy Champion N Obang MFT was awarded a cash prize of Rs 1,50,000 along with the prestigious trophy and certificates. Runners-up, Team Gilgal, received Rs 80,000 as well as trophy and certificates.
Individual prizes included Limakumzuk from United Boys as the Best Defender; Hamugha from N Obang MFT as the Best Goalkeeper; Bapen from Team Gilgal as the Player of the Tournament; and Thejasetuo from Team Gilgal as the Highest Goal Scorer. Ungerlong FC was recognized as the Best Team, while the two semi-finalists, Ungerlong FC and Telongjem FC, were acknowledged too.
The Marsosang Football Trophy 2023, which commenced on December 12 at Langpangkong Tsükong GHS Chuchuyimlang Play Ground, featured twelve teams vying for the coveted trophy.
The teams included AROJU CLUB, WINGERS CLUB, YOUNGSTERS FC, VISIONS, TELONGJEM FC, ROCKY CLUB, UNITED BOYS, ENDZONE ELITE, N OBANG MEMORIAL FOOTBALL TEAM, TEAM GILGAL, UNGERLONG FC, and MARSOSANG SC. The tournament witnessed various state and district-level football players from across the region.
