Kuki FC emerged as the champion of the second Peren District Football League (PDFL) and PDFA Cup 2024 after defeating the league champion Lekie Mtei FC in the final on Saturday at New Jalukie village playground.

The tournament was organised by Peren District Football Association (PDFA) in collaboration with New Jalukie Super League (NSL) from 17 August to 7 September 2024.

In a nail biting final match encounter, Kuki FC who conceded a defeat against Lekie Mtei came back stronger to avenge their lost in the league round 3-0.

In a packed crowed of around 8000 spectators, resilient Kuki FC and Lekie Mtei FC displayed their skills and high standards of football. Kuki FC found their lead in the first half of the match when Lamsanggin’s long range ball from the right flank found the back of the net in the 33rd minute. The league champion Lekie Mtei FC fought back to find the equaliser, missed some potential opportunities and failed to make any breakthrough.

After the second half, Both the teams returned with their renewed spirit to claim the coveted title. Lekie Mtei missed several chances to find the equaliser. With the crowd cheering for Kuki FC, Kuki FC gained momentum to push harder to doubled their lead, however, the enthusiasm and the tempo for Lekie Mtei began to fall. Kuki FC began to push harder and doubled their lead in the 74th when Lamsanggin doubled his score. Kuki FC the sealed the victory when Mangkholen found the back of the net when he intercepted a cross inside the box in the melee of bodies in the extra added time to claim the coveted title.

Lamginmang was caution a Yellow Card for foul play. Khamlou Man of the Match was awarded by LAMSANGGING HANGSING.

The closing ceremony was graced by vice president Nagaland Football Association and president Dimapur District Football Association Mughato Sumi as the special guest.

Special guest, Mughato Sumi in his address pointed out that Peren produce the highest number of raw talent football players in Nagaland. Mughato lauded the commitment of the organisers for successfully organising the league despite their pathetic ground condition. He also reminded that to be professional, one must maintain consistency. The special guest also urged the elders and anybody who could financially assist to the PDFA to come forward and l appreciate the PDFA for sacrificing their time and energy to promote the beautiful game in the district. He also attributed the reason for deteriorating the class of football in the state to ism, which has hugely impacted the standard of football in the state.

The special guest was accompanied by members of Western Sumi Sports Association, Western Sumi Students Union and Dimapur District Football Association.

The highest fans award was bagged by Kuki FC while the highest Instgram followers award was bagged by Nchangram Lun FC.