KSUM stuns SSS 4-2 in MDFA Trophy opener

MOKOKCHUNG — In a shocker, Konyak Students’ Union Mokokchung (KSUM) defeated Sports Society Soyim (SSS) 4-2 in the opening match of the MDFA Trophy 2023 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, on October 17.

Khampie scored goals for KSUM in the 35th and 60th minutes, and Kapzei T finished the match with a pair of goals in the 39th and 76th minutes. Shiponglepba scored goals for SSS in the 48th and 86th minutes.

SSS entered the field with confidence, but they were overwhelmed by KSUM, who got off to a brisk start and went on to draw the first blood in the 35th minute by Khampie, and Kapzei T doubled the score in the 39th minute.

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Khampei and Kapzei T each finished their first tourney tribute with a brace, each earning a three-pointer for their team. KSUM proved too good for SSS, as Shiponglepba's brace in the 86th minute was insufficient to lift their team.

Moanungsang MSC, last year's runner-up, will face Dare Devils (AR) in the first match on Wednesday, while Araka United will face the defending champions, Telongjem FC, in the second.

During the 15-day tournament, 14 teams will compete for the coveted trophy.

Earlier in the programme, Benei M Lamthiu, MLA and general secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), stated that the association will approach Chief Minister Rio with a proposal for a state football league.

“I believe it will boost and provide a better infrastructure for the young people who want to pursue a career in football,” he said.

He also clarified the show cause notice issued by the NFA to some players. He said that the NFA is yet to come out with an order but has set-up a disciplinary action committee, which will sit within a week or two regarding the matter.

“Whatever action needs to be taken will be initiated depending on the situation, and the matter will be resolved soon and will be intimated both in social media as well as in print media,” he clarified.

Lamthiu also stated that sports has become a global industry, and football, which has millions of followers, is the most watched and loved game in the world.

He said the NFA, with the support of district associations, players, and the public, is trying its best to uplift football and infrastructure in the state.

To the players, he said sports should not only be a hobby to them but also a career option because, in this competitive world, government service is not the only way out, and sports can provide the best alternative options.