Players from Tuensang (in pink) and Niuland battle for possession during their semi-final encounter in the ongoing Dr. T Ao Trophy 2024 at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground, Tuensang, on September 25.
Morung Express News
Tuensang | September 25
In an exhilarating semi-final clash at the 23rd Inter-District Football Championship, Dr T Ao Trophy 2024, Tuensang stunned Niuland 2-1 at the Loyem Memorial Astro Turf Ground in Tuensang town securing a berth in the final for the first time.
As one of Nagaland’s oldest districts, Tuensang’s football team entered the semi-finals as underdogs despite topping their group, which included Longleng, Mokokchung, and Kiphire.
The team’s journey to the semis saw them edge Noklak 1-0 in the quarterfinals, but facing football powerhouse Niuland, known for their strong offensive display, throughout the tournament, posed a significant challenge.
The match began with an electrifying atmosphere as Tuensang, buoyed by a home crowd roaring in support, showcased an impressive display of grit and determination.
Tuensang’s talismanic forward Ayenmongba opened the scoring early in the fifth minute, converting a free kick that slipped past Niuland’s goalkeeper Homuka, igniting the home crowd.
This early goal set the tone for what would become a defining moment for Tuensang’s footballing history.
Riding high on momentum, Tuensang continued to apply pressure, breaking through Niuland’s usually steadfast defense.
In the 21st minute, Tuensang’s Besang, wearing jersey No. 10, took advantage of a midfield error by Niuland, launching a brilliant chip from outside the box over an out-of-position Homuka to extend the lead to 2-0.
Despite missing their key player Bapenyimjong due to injury, Tuensang played one of their best games of the tournament, establishing themselves as a formidable opponent.
The defensive line, led by Bumang and Tsalichem, held strong against a flurry of attacks from Niuland’s seasoned players, including captain Toka, Kakhevi, Vinoka, and star striker Apeto.
Niuland finally broke through Tuensang’s defenses in the 43rd minute when Toka headed home from a corner kick, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
This was the first time Tuensang had conceded in the tournament, forcing them to face a different kind of pressure heading into halftime.
The second half saw a resilient Tuensang withstand wave after wave of Niuland’s offensive surges.
The team defense and goalkeeper Angki—substituted later in the match—effectively neutralised Niuland’s efforts to equalise.
Tuensang’s historic win not only marks their first appearance in the Dr T Ao Trophy final but also solidifies their place as a rising force in Nagaland football.
Tuensang now await the outcome of the other semifinal between Peren and Mon to see who they will face in the championship showdown.
For the players and fans, the upset victory against a team of Niuland’s calibre will be remembered as one of Tuensang’s finest moments, showcasing the heart, determination, and resilience that have come to define their campaign in this tournament.
