Doyang Strikers win 27th MDFA Trophy

MOKOKCHUNG — Doyang Strikers clinched the 27th MDFA Trophy with a 2-1 victory over Chargers FC at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on Saturday.

The match began with both sides cautious in their approach. Doyang’s Khanngam Horam attempted two long-range shots that went wide, while Chargers’ Limatongzuk missed three opportunities—a cutback from Longkhai, a D-box curler, and a corner kick. 

Despite frequent advances along the right flank, Chargers were unable to capitalise. Doyang’s Yami and Horam also made attacking efforts, but the Chargers’ defence remained solid.

Yami tested the opposition with a free kick that was saved by Chargers’ goalkeeper Supongnemba, while Horam sent another set piece off target. Limatongzuk attempted a header, but Doyang’s Sashi cleared it outside the box. 

Horam’s diagonal run led to a wall pass that failed to connect, and a Chargers’ free kick soon after caused a brief scramble in Doyang’s box, during which Tako Achumi received a yellow card in the 34th minute.

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Chargers’ momentum from the set piece faded, and Doyang’s Horam set up Somon for a powerful attempt, which Supongnemba managed to save. A late yellow card for Temsuyanger gave Doyang a final free kick of the half, which went over the bar, ending the first half goalless.

Early in the second half, Chargers’ Imnatoshi took a strike from Limatongzuk’s assist, but Sashi made the save. In the 50th minute, Chargers suffered a setback as captain Tongpangnokdang was substituted due to injury and replaced by Aripong. Within the same minute, Yangersosang received a yellow card, and from the resulting play, Yami scored from a rebound to give Doyang a 1-0 lead.

Doyang pressed to build on their advantage, while Chargers attempted a counterattack through Imnatoshi, whose shot went over the bar.

Substitutions followed, with Chargers bringing in Takotuba and Illanger in the 60th and 64th minutes, respectively, while Doyang introduced Eshong.

In the 75th minute, Doyang capitalised on a counterattack when Horam broke past the defence and scored, extending the lead to 2-0. Chargers reduced the deficit in the 81st minute through Illanger’s volley, making it 2-1. Moments later, Aripong received a yellow card. Doyang’s subsequent free kick was saved by Supongnemba, who also denied a rebound attempt. Chargers continued to press for an equaliser but were unable to convert their chances before the final whistle.

Doyang Strikers were awarded INR 2,00,000, along with the championship trophy and certificates, while Chargers FC received INR 1,00,000 as runners-up. 

The final was attended by Lanuchuba, councillor of Dimapur Municipal Council, president of Longtrok Senden, and president of NPF Youth Wing Dimapur Division, as the guest of honour.

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Individual awards were presented to Supongnemba (Chargers) for Best Goalkeeper, Tongpangnokdang (Chargers) for Best Midfielder, Pangersunep (Doyang) for Best Defender, and Longkhai (Chargers) and Khanngam Horam (Doyang) as joint Highest Scorers.