MIFT 2024: Tongdentsuyong, Sungkomen, Artang register wins

MOKOKCHUNG — Tongdentsuyong struck two quick first-half goals to beat Kumlong 2-0 and begin their 5th Mokokchung Interward Football Tournament (MIFT) campaign on a winning note at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Wednesday.

Noksang and Wabongtemjem scored in the 22nd and 25th minutes, respectively, to upset the opponent, demonstrating Tongdentsuyong's clear dominance in the first half. 

Tongdentsuyong maintained their dominance in the second half, yet they encountered difficulty penetrating the Kumlong defence. The Kumlong defence improved significantly after halftime, bolstering their ranks to thwart Tongdentsuyong's scoring attempts.

Sungkomen defeated defending champion Sangtemla 2-1 in the second match, thanks to two second-half goals. Tarepnungsang scored Sungkomen's first goal in the 21st minute, capping an exciting first half.

Sangtemla were very fortunate to survive a penalty kick a few seconds later when Sungkomen's shot missed and struck the left post, rebounding but missing the target.

Sangtemla displayed determination but couldn't capitalise on their initial opportunity. However, R Achi salvaged Sangtemla with an equaliser, bringing the score to 1-1 just before stoppage time at the end of an intense first half.

In the second half, Sangtemla launched devastating counter-attacks, yet luck did not favour the defending champions on this occasion. Sungkomen's goalkeeper showcased superb saves, neutralising several crucial threats from Sangtemla.

Sangtemla squandered three golden opportunities before Lipoksunep sealed a 2-1 victory for Sungkomen with a decisive goal just before the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Artang defeated Alempang 1-0 to close the gap on Pool A's lead by 6 points.

Both teams had opportunities to score, but it was in the 29th minute that Tongpangnokdang broke the deadlock, sprinting onto a perfectly played through ball from the Artang Skipper. Artang maintained an excellent performance throughout the match, keeping the scoreline at 1-0 until the end.

Also read: MIFT 2024: Artang overwhelm Marepkong with 7-0 victory