The 3rd SYU Open Futsal Tournament, organized by the Salangtem Youth Union (SYU) under the aegis of Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), concluded this evening at Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung. Themed “Focus to Endure,” the 3-day tournament was officially partnered by Nagaland Minerals & Mines.
G-Sports emerged as the champions, clinching the top spot with a cash prize of Rs. 60,000/- along with the trophy and certificates. Ignite secured the second position, taking home Rs. 40,000/- with certificates, while Chargers FC finished third, receiving Rs. 10,000 and certificates.
In the individual categories, *Imnasunep of G-Sports* was awarded *Best Goalkeeper*, while *Yanger of Sunday People* and *Tejasetuo of G-Sports* shared the title of *Highest Goal Scorer*with nine goals each. *Sentimenba Jamir of Sunday People* was recognized as the *Most Promising Player*, and *Lumpetsing of G-Sports* was named *Player of the Tournament*. *Tuli United* received the *Best Disciplined Team* award.
G-Sports have established themselves as a consistent force in the Salangtem Youth Union Open Futsal Tournament. They emerged as champions in the inaugural edition in 2023 after defeating Trebuchet FC. In the second edition held in 2024, they reached the final once again but narrowly lost to Ignite FC, settling for the runners-up position. However, G-Sports bounced back in the third edition in 2025, avenging their previous loss by defeating Ignite FC to reclaim the championship title.
Altogether 19 teams from Mokokchung, Dimapur and Wokha competed as the 3rd SYU Open Futsal Tournament.
The closing ceremony was graced by Tizhisie Pojar, SDPO Mokokchung, as the Guest of Honour. Tizhisie Pojar, SDPO Mokokchung, stated that football is a game that excites everyone—regardless of age, gender, or position in life. He emphasized that football is more than just a competition; it is driven by passion—the kind that pushes individuals beyond what they believe is possible. “Passion is what always drives us forward,” he remarked.
He further highlighted the essence of teamwork in the sport, saying that without it, football would not be as beautiful as it is. He explained that the beauty of the game lies in the display of sportsmanship, which reflects respect, discipline, and unity among players.
While some people love football purely for the joy of the game, he noted that others play it to stay physically fit. “Football is not just football,” he said, adding that it goes beyond the field by promoting fitness and keeping young people away from harmful societal practices such as addiction, drug abuse, and alcoholism. He stressed that with genuine interest and encouragement, football can become a positive force for personal growth and societal improvement.
He also underscored that football is a discipline-centric game. “A star is not born overnight,” he said, noting that success in football—and in life—depends on discipline, resilience, and unity, whether it be among teammates, coaches, or reflected in one’s lifestyle and habits.
Concluding his speech, the SDPO reminded the players of the importance of humility. “Whatever game it is, when we win, we win with humility,” he said. “We don’t win all the time—sometimes we fail, and we learn to accept defeat as well.” He added that football not only forges friendships but also creates memories that last a lifetime.
Nagaland Tribune caught up with Tiasunep Longkumer, proprietor of G-Sports Mokokchung, whose team has made a remarkable impact in the local sports scene by reaching the finals in all three editions of the SYU Open Futsal Tournament.
G-Sports Mokokchung, established in 2022, is not only an active sports team but also a sportswear store.
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Speaking on their achievements, Tiasunep shared that since 2023, the G-Sports team has participated in 15 futsal tournaments, winning 12 of them, and has maintained an unbeaten record in all league-stage matches. Beyond futsal; in volleyball, the team has taken part in 8 tournaments and has a record of 5 wins.
As a footballer himself, Tiasunep emphasized his personal role in player mobilization and team management. He actively scouts, selects, and trains players, staying connected with the sporting ecosystem to ensure his team always has competitive edge.
Beyond futsal, Tiasunep has previously formed and led several football teams. Under the name ‘Youngsters Mokokchung,’ he fielded a team for the inaugural Under-20 Football Tournament organized by Patizung Sporting Club (PSC) in Tuli. He also participated in the Capt. N. Kenguruse MVC Memorial Football Tournament as the ‘Royals Naga’ and competed in the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) Tournament in 2022 as ‘KSR’.
In the concluded 3rd edition of the SYU Open Futsal Tournament 2025, the G-Sports team line-up includes notable players from reputed clubs such as Barak FC, Sechu Zubza FC, and 27th United FC—all of whom had competed in the inaugural Nagaland Super League (NSL), 2025.
S. Bendang Imchen, Convenor of the Planning Committee for the SYU Open Futsal Tournament, expressed optimism about the tournament’s growing appeal, noting that it is attracting players from Dimapur, Kohima, Wokha, and various parts of Mokokchung district. He highlighted the participation of key players from renowned state football clubs, which he described as highly motivating. “It’s encouraging to see such talent here. It also gives our local players a chance to learn and grow,” he said. Imchen added that several team leaders are scouting talents alongside rising district players and expressed hope that such efforts will continue to promote and mobilize talent, with plans to organize the tournament even better in the future.
G-sports defeated Ignite in the final match with a score of 4-2.
