Rural Development and SIRD Minister Metsubo Jamir and officials with players of the opening match. (Morung Photo)
CVYO blank Amigos FC 7-0 in opener
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 13
The 25th edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2025, organised under the aegis of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and Angami Students’ Union (ASU), commenced today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
In the tournament opener, Chedema Village Youth Organization (CVYO) defeated Amigos FC (Tesophenyu) 7-0. Lunminlian scored twice, while Neikedozo Tsira, William Neisial, T. Zimik, Kekhrie Tsira, and Menuophretuo Chakrüno contributed one goal each. Lunminlian was named Man of the Match and felicitated by Rokoketu Sechii, Tribunal General of ASU.
Gracing the opening ceremony as the inaugural guest, Nagaland Rural Development and SIRD Minister Metsubo Jamir said the tournament is “not just a celebration of football excellence, but a solemn tribute to the sacrifice of Late Kekuojalie Sachü and Late Vikhozo Yhoshü, who laid down their lives in 1986 during student protests for a cause deeply rooted in the Naga people’s journey for justice and peace.”
“This gathering reminds us that their sacrifice is not forgotten. Their legacy has kept alive the spirit of sacrifice and loyalty, carried forward by NSF and ASU, who have built this annual tournament into a beacon of remembrance, unity, and shared purpose,” Jamir said.
Stressing the importance of football as a source of joy, pride, and identity, he said, “Today, football is more organised, better supported, and more ambitious than ever.” He urged players to focus on training, discipline, teamwork, and skill development to build professional athletes capable of performing on international platforms.
“Let your encouragement be the wind beneath their wings,” he added, calling on everyone to support the players. He further urged participants to strive for international recognition, saying, “Let your passion, discipline, and skill make you the next football stars of this country. Let your journey inspire others to believe that excellence is possible from our hills and villages, and that a Naga player can stand tall on the world stage.”
Highlighting sports as a unifying force, Jamir said it fosters cooperation, perseverance, and respect—values essential for society. Local sports initiatives, he added, are breaking stereotypes and cultivating lifelong friendships. The minister also thanked Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for his unwavering support in nurturing football talent and establishing the Nagaland Super League.
“Let us pledge to support our athletes to foster a sporting culture grounded in unity and professionalism, ensuring that the spirit of Late Kekuojalie Sachü and Late Vikhozo Yhoshü continues to inspire generations. Let football and all sports continue to unite, uplift, and empower the youth of Nagaland,” he said.
NSF president Mteisuding Heraang said the day is “not only a celebration of sportsmanship but also a solemn remembrance of Lt Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima Village and Lt Vikhozo Yhoshü of Kigwema Village, who laid down their lives on the altar of democracy.” He paid tribute to all injured during the tragic events of 1986, saying, “Their families’ pain and endurance remain a silent but powerful testimony to the cost of our struggle. The NSF acknowledges their sacrifices with deepest gratitude and assures their courage and suffering will never be forgotten.”
Heraang added that the tournament has grown into one of the most iconic sporting events in Northeast India, saying, “It is not merely a tournament but a movement—a reminder that even in grief, we can choose unity and, through play, aspire for peace.”
ASU president Diezevisie Nakhro, under the theme “Goal for Peace,” said the tournament nurtures young talent while promoting unity. “This trophy fosters teamwork, progressive activism, and healthy competition,” he said, welcoming all participants as ambassadors of unity and sports in Nagaland. Earlier, Seyielhousa Keyho, Secretary, Games & Sports, ASU, administered the oath to all participating teams.
September 15 Matches
12:30 PM: Mez & Co vs Kohima Bible College
2:30 PM: Sadar Hills FA (Manipur) vs Wolves FC
