Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO) made a dream start to their campaign in the 25th edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, routing Amigos FC 7-0 in the inaugural clash at IG Stadium, Kohima on Saturday.
CVYO asserted control right from kickoff, firing five goals in the first half to leave no doubt about their intent. Striker Lunminlian opened the floodgates in the 4th minute and doubled his tally in the 38th minute to complete a brace.
Neikedozo Tsira struck in the 12th minute, followed by William Neisial in the 25th minute. Just before halftime, T Zemik added the fifth goal in the 40th minute.
After the break, Kekhrie Tsira extended the lead in the 53rd minute, while Menuophretuo Chakrünuo capped the emphatic win with an 81st-minute strike.
The one-sided victory sent a strong message to other contenders as CVYO displayed both attacking flair and clinical finishing. For Amigos FC, it was a night to forget as they struggled to cope with the relentless pace and pressure from their opponents.
Up next, Chedema VYO will take on Kidima Farmers United on September 19 in their second group fixture.
Earlier, the inaugural function of the tournament was graced by Metsubo Jamir, Minister for RD & SIRD, as the Special Guest.
The 25th edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy is jointly organised by the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) under the theme “Goal for Peace.” The tournament is held in honour and remembrance of two comrades, Late Kekuojalie Sachü of Kohima Village and Late Vikhozo Yhoshü of Kigwema Village, who fell victim to indiscriminate firing by the Armed Police from Alichen on March 20, 1986.
This year, the tournament has drawn 45 teams comprising 900 players and 180 team officials from Nagaland, Manipur, Sikkim, and Delhi. Among the participants are 36 teams from Nagaland, seven from Manipur, and one each from Delhi and Sikkim. The tournament will continue till October 18.
The NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, now in its silver jubilee year, remains one of Nagaland’s most prestigious football tournaments, serving as a platform where sport, history, and the spirit of unity converge.
A symbol of shared identity
Metsubo Jamir described the silver jubilee of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy as both symbolic and celebratory. He said the 2025 edition with the theme “Goal for Peace” serves as a reminder that while football unites people on the field, harmony must be the true goal off the field.
He highlighted the Trophy Tour reaching Naga-inhabited regions across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Nagaland and Myanmar. “It is not just a journey of a trophy, but a journey of unity, remembrance, and a shared identity across borders,” he said. “Let football, and all sports, continue to unite, uplift, and empower the youth of Nagaland,” he concluded.