Dignitaries during the opening ceremony on November 1
Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 1
The 7th edition of Capt Late N Kengurüse, MVC Memorial Football Tournament 2023 commenced today at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
Gracing the opening ceremony, Major Gen Vikas Lakhera, SM, IG, IGAR (N) said “I am hopeful that this tournament over the next nine days will bring all of us together as we root for our respective teams and celebrate the true Naga love and passion for football.”
This tournament is being organised by Assam Rifles on behalf of HQ 3 Corps and he conveyed best wishes from Lt Gen H S Sahi, AVSM, YSM, SM, GOC, 3 Corps to all the participating teams and the organizsers.
Maj Gen said the tournament is being organised with the motto of “Pride, Passion & Perseverance” signiying the pride of the Naga people and Security Forces towards the rich history, culture, bravery and the passion of Nagas towards football as well as to acknowledge the persistent efforts in ensuring victory be it the field of sports, military ops or life in general.
Neiselie Kenguruse, father of Capt N Kenguruse also addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to Assam Rifles for organizing the tournament in honour of his son.
NFA president K. Neibou Sekhose also addressed the opening ceremony. The opening ceremony was peppered with musical interludes performed by 45 Assam Rifles Jazz Band, Mengu Suokhire and NOMAD Band. Arenchenla Walling and Mahesh, Keziya Sumi, Phangmai Yanlem also performed during the break-time.
16 teams join tournament
16 teams from 12 districts of the state are participating in the tournament, which will continue till November 9.
The winners and runners up trophy were unveiled during the ceremony in addition to the individual prizes, including Golden Boot, Golden Gloves, Best Mid Fielder and Best Defender.
The champion will be awarded with a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.
The primary aim of the tournament is to remember the immortal brave heart of Nagaland who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty during Operation Vijay (Kargil War) and promote sportsmanship spirit amongst the youth of Nagaland.
The tournament is organised by Assam Rifles in collaboration with Nagaland Football Association (NFA) as part of Op Sadbhavana by Spear Corps.
Tiema-Khe wins inaugural match
In the inaugural match, Tiema-Khe Kidima FC (Kohima) defeated Lozu FC (Zunheboto) 4-2.
Dupisa Pucho fetched a hattrick Tiema-Khe in the 9th, 39th and 55th minute. Vizapo Phinyo added another goal for the team in the 92nd minute.
Ghuzhe Chishi and Khuvishe Swu netted a goal each for Lozu FC in the 8th and 20th minute respectively.
NOVEMBER 2 MATCHES
1st Match (8: 00 AM)
Liangmai FC (Peren) vs Headhunters FC (164 INF BN TA)
2nd match (1:00 PM)
Viswemi FC (Kohima) vs Western Sumi Sports Association (Niuland).
