KSUM (red and black jerseys) defeated Team Gilgal 2-1 to reach the finals of the ongoing MDFA Trophy 2024 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on October 26. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 26
The first semifinal of the MDFA Trophy 2024 featured an intense showdown between Konyak Students Union Mokokchung (KSUM) and Team Gilgal at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Saturday. KSUM emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, securing their place in the finals.
KSUM started strong, with David Konyak scoring in just the 2nd minute after a well-placed cross allowed him to net a one-touch goal. KSUM dominated early on, while Team Gilgal struggled to equalize despite coming close, hitting the goalpost twice early on.
KSUM extended their lead in the 25th minute with a stunning goal by Alei Konyak. An attempted clearance from a KSUM corner landed at his feet outside the box, where he fired a powerful shot to give his team a 2-0 advantage. However, Team Gilgal quickly responded, with Ato Chopi scoring in the 31st minute to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
In the second half, Gilgal came close again, hitting the post from a corner and continually testing KSUM’s defense. The game grew more physical, with five yellow cards issued — two for Gilgal and three for KSUM — as both teams fought fiercely for control. The match remained tense, with an added five minutes of injury time where Gilgal pushed hard for an equalizer while KSUM focused on holding their lead. The final whistle sealed KSUM’s 2-1 win, booking their place in the championship match, where they will face either Telongjem FC or Super Seniors FC.
Telongjem FC dominates Eastern Wings 6-0 to reach semifinals
In the fourth and final quarterfinal, Telongjem FC showcased their dominance against Eastern Wing at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Saturday morning, following a postponement due to heavy fog on Friday. Telongjem cruised to an emphatic 6-0 victory, reinforcing their status as defending champions and advancing to the semifinals.
Tournament standout Japheth Kath led Telongjem’s offensive charge, scoring a hat-trick with goals in the 29th, 82nd, and added time in the 92nd minutes, making him the tournament’s top scorer with six goals. Keyi Puakleube also contributed, scoring in the 31st minute, with Noklensunep and Menguzelie Rutsa adding goals in the 88th and 90th minutes, respectively.
Telongjem FC’s overwhelming performance sets up an exciting semifinal clash with Super Seniors FC on Monday, October 28, as they chase a record-breaking fourth consecutive MDFA title.
