45 teams, 900 players to compete in 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy

Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 9

The 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy will kick off on September 13 at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. The tournament will continue till October 18, with matches also scheduled at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.

Jointly organised by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and Angami Students’ Union (ASU), the tournament commemorates Lt. Kekoujalie Sachü and Lt. Vikhozo Yhoshü, who lost their lives during a peaceful rally on March 20, 1986, in Kohima.

Addressing a press conference at the ASU office on Tuesday, the organisers informed that 900 players and 180 team officials from Nagaland, Manipur, Sikkim and Delhi will participate, making this edition one of the largest football tournaments in the state.

The press conference was addressed by Steering Committee Convenor Medo Yhokha, ASU president Diezevisie Nakhro, Publicity Convenor Sedeneikho Shosahie, Steering Committee Co-Convenor Khrielevi Chüsi, Technical Convenor Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome and Treasurer Kezhazer Angami.

Altogether, 45 teams will vie for the coveted champion’s title. Thirty-six matches will be played at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, and eight matches at Chümoukedima Football Stadium.

Entry to the inaugural match at IG Stadium will be free, while tickets for other matches will cost Rs 50. From the quarterfinal stage onwards, ticket prices will be Rs 100.

The inaugural programme will be graced by Metsubo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, as Chief Guest.

For the first time, the tournament will feature live streaming and advanced broadcast technology through the BingeBOXX OTT platform. DOX Marketing and Media will also provide real-time updates, highlights and the latest information about the tournament.

The champions will be awarded Rs 5 lakh, while the runners-up will receive Rs 3 lakh. Losing semi-finalists will get Rs 1 lakh each, and losing quarter-finalists will receive Rs 80,000 each.

The Player of the Tournament will be presented with a two-wheeler. Awards of Rs 25,000 each will be given to the Best Custodian, Best Defender, Best Midfielder, Top Scorer, Fair Play Team and the Most Promising Player (Under 20). The Best Coach and Best Referee will each receive Rs 10,000.

A Player of the Match citation and memento will be awarded in every game.

Over the years, the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy has grown into a powerful symbol of unity, peace and sportsmanship, while continuing to honour the legacy of the martyrs.