Champions Soyem Sangya FC with runners-up TVSF, guest of honour Hongkin Chang, Deputy Commandant, 3rd NAP, Tuensang and TDFA officials. (Morung Photo)
Moses Hongang Chang
Tuensang | September 27
Soyem Sangya FC clinched the inaugural Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) League title on Friday, defeating Tuensang Village Sports Foundation (TVSF) 3–2 in a thrilling final at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground. The two-and-a-half month-long tournament, which began on July 11, concluded amid enthusiastic local support and a showcase of skill, resilience, and sportsmanship.
TVSF drew first blood in the 4th minute through Bumet Sangli, but Soyem Sangya responded swiftly, with Kelep Sangba equalizing in the 9th minute after a well-worked move. Soyem Sangya surged ahead in the 27th minute when Sangli Ongbou capitalized on a defensive lapse to make it 2–1 at halftime.
The second half saw TVSF push for a comeback, but Khumba extended Soyem Sangya’s lead in the 71st minute with a decisive strike, making it 3–1. TVSF managed a late goal through Namang Yimjong in the 89th minute, but time ran out before they could level the match.
The victory capped a remarkable campaign for Soyem Sangya, who entered the play-offs as one of the favourites and displayed composure and attacking flair throughout the league.
At the closing ceremony, Soyem Sangya received the champion’s trophy, medals, certificates, and a cash prize of Rs 80,000, while runners-up TVSF collected Rs 40,000 along with medals and certificates. Play-off contenders Auyang FC and Naga Brothers each received Rs 20,000 in recognition of their performances.
Individual honours highlighted standout contributions during the tournament. Ayen Mongba (TVSF) won the Golden Boot with 27 goals, Imtikümzük (Soyem Sangya) claimed the Golden Glove for goalkeeping excellence, and Yemlongchaba L (Soyem Sangya) was named Most Valuable Player. Menyasipong (TVSF) earned the Young Emerging Player U-20 award, while Sonshang FC received the Fair Play Award.
The closing program was hosted by Vidila, Women Coordinator of TDFA, and opened with a prayer by Ben Chuba, Associate Pastor Youth, Mupüng Baptist Lashong. Hongkin Chang, Deputy Commandant of the 3rd NAP Tuensang and Guest of Honour, congratulated all participating teams, urging young athletes to embrace discipline, healthy living, and use football as a platform for growth. Moses Lachumong, Secretary of the TDFA League Governing Body, delivered the vote of thanks.
Organised by the Tuensang District Football Association, the 1st TDFA League featured top clubs from across the district in league and play-off formats over two-and-a-half months. Matches were held at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground and drew strong local attendance, with additional viewers online via the Peep Hole Production YouTube channel.
The tournament highlighted emerging talent and the growing popularity of football in Eastern Nagaland, with TVSF’s early dominance giving way to Soyem Sangya’s resilient march to the title.
