Players of Telongjem FC and KSUM in action on the sixth day of the ongoing MDFA Trophy 2024 at Imkongmeren Sports Complex on October 21.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 21
On the 6th day of the MDFA Trophy 2024, the group stages came to a conclusion at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex in Mokokchung. Defending champions Telongjem FC secured their spot in the quarterfinals with a commanding 3-0 victory over Konyak Students Union Mokokchung (KSUM) in Pool-D. Meanwhile, NU Lumami delivered a stunning 5-1 win against Legendary Yeomanly Misfits (LYM), knocking them out of the tournament.
In the first match of the day, NU Lumami faced LYM in a high-stakes battle. The first half ended in a goalless stalemate as both teams struggled to convert their chances. The second half, however, came alive in the 52nd minute when LYM’s Rukune broke the deadlock, giving his team a glimmer of hope. But NU Lumami responded swiftly, with M. Phaowang equalizing just three minutes later.
Phaowang continued as he scored again in the 71st minute to give NU Lumami a 2-1 lead. Neil Nagi added a third in the 82nd minute, followed by Phaowang completing his hat-trick just two minutes later, extending the lead to 4-1. Nagi sealed LYM’s fate with his second goal in the 85th minute, making it 5-1. LYM bowed out of the tournament without a single win, while NU Lumami and Eastern Wing advanced to the quarterfinals from Pool-D.
In the second match, Telongjem FC showcased their championship pedigree against KSUM. After a goalless first half, Shurhosul Zhotso gave Telongjem the lead in the 53rd minute. Japeth Kath then put the game beyond reach with two quick goals in the 83rd and 85th minutes, securing a 3-0 win. Telongjem FC, aiming to become the first team to win four consecutive MDFA Trophies, comfortably advanced to the quarterfinals without losing a match. Despite their loss, KSUM advanced to the next round on goal difference, edging out Amokmolu SC in Pool-D.
Elsewhere, debutants Team Gilgal and Moanungsang Memorial Sporting Club progressed from Pool-A, while Super Seniors FC and Zonipang SC advanced from Pool-B.
October 22 Fixture
1st Quarter Final match
Team Gilgal Vs Zonipang SC (1:00 PM)
