Tuensang and Zunheboto recorded emphatic victories on the second day of the 25th Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Trophy 2026, scoring nine and seven goals respectively, while defending champions Mon began their title defence with a narrow 1-0 win over Dimapur at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, on Wednesday.
The three matches produced 17 goals, with Tuensang captain Ayenmongba and Zunheboto’s Atopu each scoring a hat-trick. However, the day’s results could have major implications for Group A, where Zunheboto’s emphatic 7-0 win over Noklak and defending champions Mon’s 1-0 victory over Dimapur have shifted the balance of the contest. Dimapur, considered a strong contender, now face a crucial test against Zunheboto on October 16. A defeat or even a draw could leave Dimapur’s campaign in serious jeopardy, potentially ending their tournament hopes much earlier than expected.
Tuensang thrash Meluri 9-0
Tuensang overwhelmed Meluri 9-0, with Bichumli opening the scoring in the second minute. Captain Ayenmongba struck in the seventh, 32nd and 48th minutes to register the tournament’s first hat-trick.
Relithong scored twice in the 31st and 60th minutes, while Bongcheli M (51st), Besuchingmak (64th) and Yimtitopong (70th) added to the tally.
Tuensang dominated possession and created numerous chances, recording 17 shots, including 15 on target. The team’s momentum was interrupted when Namang Yimjong was sent off in the 16th minute, but it continued to control the match and secure a commanding win.
Atopu hat-trick powers Zunheboto to 7-0 win
Zunheboto also delivered a one-sided performance, defeating Noklak 7-0 in their Group A encounter.
Atopu scored three times in the 12th, 20th and 26th minutes to complete a hat-trick, before Pulovi extended the lead in the 34th minute. Mangholen, Tohika and Ato scored in the 52nd, 61st and 65th minutes respectively.
Zunheboto registered 13 shots, 11 on target, while Noklak were unable to convert their opportunities into goals despite recording 15 shots, eight on target.
Mon start title defence with narrow win
Defending champions Mon edged Dimapur 1-0 in a closely contested match, with Eshong Konyak scoring the decisive goal in the 56th minute.
The sides were evenly matched in possession, and neither managed to score in the first half. Mon found the breakthrough after the interval and held on to secure all three points despite Dimapur’s efforts to equalise.
The result gives Mon a positive start to their title defence, while Dimapur will face added pressure in Group A following Zunheboto’s emphatic win over Noklak. Zunheboto and Dimapur meet on October 16 in a match that could shape both teams’ prospects of reaching the knockout stage.
Thursday’s fixtures
Four matches are scheduled for October 15: Niuland will face Chümoukedima at 7:30 am, followed by Phek against Peren at 10 am. Shamator will meet Longleng at 12:30 pm, while Kohima and Tseminyu will play the day’s final match at 3 pm.
