Nagaland Police football team, who are currently competing in the prestigious 57th Assam Tea Planters Association (ATPA) Shield Football Tournament, have booked their semifinal berth after defeating Assam Police Blue on Wednesday at Jorhat District Sports Association (JDSA) playground via a solitary goal scored by Rhitsho Mero in the 70th minute assisted by Khwetelhi Thopi.
In their semifinal match on Friday, Nagaland Police will play against Assam State Electrical Board (ASEB) at 6pm.
A total of 12 teams i.e. Oil India FC, Charaibahis SA, NRL Academy, Jorhat Town Club, Bodousa Club, Gurkha Training Center Shillong in Group A and ASEB, Jorhat Victorious, Nambor Club, Assam Police Blues, North East United and Nagaland Police in Group B are currently vying for the coveted title.
The tournament kicked off at JDSA playground on March 30 and, for the first time, all the matches are being played at night under floodlights. The tournament is being organized by Jorhat District Sports Association as part of its centenary celebration.
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Meanwhile, six civilian footballers namely Neithovilie Chalieu, Khwetelhi Thopi, Rhitsho Mero, Nighatu T Sumi, Mezuibui, Menoneikho Nakhro who are currently representing the Police team are hoping to join the Nagaland Police battalion under sports quota once the tournament is over.
Nagaland Police team is led by coach Lhoulavolie, Asst coach Hainsiugongbe and R. Dibambo as manager.