The 6th edition of the Inter-Ward Football Tournament, organized by the Marepkong Youth Association, commenced today at Imkongmeren Sports Complex under the theme “Rise as One.”
The inaugural program was graced by Vesupra Kezo, NPS, Senior Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung, as the Guest of Honour. In his address, Kezo paid tribute to Dr. T. Ao, recalling his remarkable achievements and contributions to Indian football. He described Dr. Ao as a “powerhouse of talent” and encouraged young players to follow in his footsteps.
Kezo highlighted football’s global appeal, with over 3.5 billion fans and 22 million registered players worldwide. He noted that 12 players from Mokokchung District are currently participating in the prestigious Nagaland Super League (NSL). Emphasizing the role of skill, passion, discipline, and determination in achieving success, he also mentioned that the AIFF Junior Girls National Championship (Under-19) has been named after Dr. T. Ao, reflecting his enduring legacy in Indian football.
The Guest of Honour said that football is a universal bond of unity, free from caste, race, or nationality discrimination, stressing that football transcends being just a game. He encouraged players to strive for excellence, maintain discipline, and preserve the legacy of Dr. T. Ao.
He proposed organizing more tournaments and naming stadiums in honor of Dr. T. Ao, recognizing his immense contribution to the sport. Kezo encouraged young talents to explore football academies for better training and career opportunities. He concluded by urging players to uphold sportsmanship and wished them success in the tournament.
This year, 13 out of 18 wards of Mokokchung town are competing in the tournament. The champions will receive a cash prize of Rs 50,000, along with a trophy and certificate, while the runner-up will be awarded Rs 30,000. Additionally, four individual awards will be presented, each carrying a cash prize of Rs 2,000 and a certificate.
The tournament, played in a league-cum-knockout format, will culminate on April 5. The group-stage matches will be 60 minutes long, while the quarter-finals will feature 35-minute halves, and the semi-finals and final will have 45-minute halves.
During the ceremonial oath, Takalong Pongen, President of Marepkong Youth Association, led the players in their commitment to fair play.
A tribute was also paid to Late N. William Koso, a renowned Nagaland football coach, who tragically passed away on March 25 in a road accident. A minute of silence was observed in memory of William Koso, honoring his contributions as a football coach and educator in Nagaland.
Earlier, a welcome address was delivered by Talinungsang Longkumer, Executive Member of Marepkong Youth Association, while an exhortation was given by S. Imtichizüng Ozüküm, Chairman of Tongdentsüyong Ward, Mokokchung. The event was attended by town councillors, Ao Students’ Conference representatives, ward councils, and football enthusiasts.
Roll of Honor:
Champions of the MIWFT
2019 – Arkong Ward
2021 – Artang Ward
2022 – Mongsenbai Ward
2023 – Sangtemla Ward
2024 – Arkong Ward
Opening day treat: Two former champions stumble, one triumphs
The 6th Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2025 kicked off with last year’s runners-up, Artang Ward, defeating Yimyu Ward with an impressive 3-0 victory. Chuba Imchen stole the show by scoring the first hat-trick of the tournament, finding the back of the net in the 20th, 38th, and 55th minutes.
Along with the 2021 champions, Artang Ward, the inaugural day of the tournament also featured two other former champions in action. However, the results were contrasting, as 2022 champions Mongsenbai Ward lost to Penli Ward. Defending champions Arkong Ward, the only team to have won the title twice—first in the inaugural edition in 2019 and again in 2024—were humbled by Majakong Ward.
With today’s performance, Artang Ward looks like a strong title contender and will be vying to equal Arkong Ward’s record of winning the title twice.
Samuel scored the lone goal of the second match of the day for Penli Ward against Mongsenbai Ward in the 7th minute, ensuring the first upset of the tournament.
In the third match of the day, Watitemsu opened the scoring for Majakong Ward in the 9th minute. Arkong Ward’s defensive backbone and skipper, Inovi Chishi, scored the equalizer in the 37th minute. However, Opangsunep restored the lead for Majakong in the 43rd minute, sealing the defeat of another former champion on the opening day.
Day 2 Fixtures | 26 March
Marepkong Vs Tongdentsuyong – 12:00 Noon
Lijaba Lijen Vs Dilong – 1:30 PM
Artang Vs Penli – 3:00 PM