The Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2026 kicked off today at the Senayangba Memorial Stadium, Ungma, with defending champions Dilong Ward suffering a blow to their title defense campaign, while former champions Sangtemla Ward registered a statement win in their bid to equal a record of two titles.
Defending champions Dilong Ward suffered a 1–4 defeat to Tongdentsuyong Ward in the inaugural match of the 7th edition. In the second match, Penli Ward secured a 3–1 win over Alempang Ward. The third and final match of the day saw former champions Sangtemla Ward defeat Sungkomen Ward 4–2.
Opanglemzung, Chasu, Neili and Toshimongba scored for Tongdentsuyong Ward, while Bendangsunep netted the lone goal for Dilong Ward in their Pool-A encounter.
In another Pool-A match, Ayimtiba, Kito and Moachang scored for Penli Ward, while Chubatemsu scored for Alempang Ward. Following today’s results, Dilong Ward is at the bottom of the table and must win both of their remaining fixtures and hope for favorable results from other matches in the pool to progress to the knockout round.
In the Pool-B match, Shamoi scored a brace, while Opangtemjen and veteran Rongsenchiba added a goal each for the 2023 champions to overcome Sungkomen Ward. Atochang and Imtisangba scored for Sungkomen Ward.
Kumlong is the only other team in Pool-B. After today’s result, Sangtemla Ward are favourites to qualify for the next round, while Sungkomen Ward must win their match against Kumlong to keep their knockout hopes alive.
The inaugural program of the tournament, organized by Marepkong Youth Association under the aegis of the Mokokchung District Football Association (IMDFA), was graced by Lanuakum, Deputy Chairperson of Mokokchung Municipal Council, as Guest of Honour. The tournament, earlier scheduled to be held at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex but shifted in view of the Koridang by-election, will conclude on April 4.
The champions will receive a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with certificates, while the runners-up will receive Rs 30,000 and certificates. In addition, five individual awards will be presented for Highest Scorer, Best Defender, Best Goalkeeper, Best Midfielder, and Player of the Tournament.
FIXTURE (25TH MARCH)
11:00 Am Marepkong Mongsenbai
12 30 Pm Yimyu LijabaLijen
2:00 Pm Arkong Majakong