Eshong Konyak: The goalkeeper who became Mon’s goal-scoring hero

From guarding the goalposts to finding the back of the net, 23-year-old Eshong Konyak has emerged as one of the standout players of the Dr T Ao Trophy 2026 in Mokokchung, helping defending champions Mon district reach the final with an impressive scoring run.

The forward from Mohung village under Mon district, son of Changki Konyak and Lily Konyak, has recorded six goals and two assists in six matches. His performances have drawn attention from football followers across Nagaland, particularly as Mon prepare to defend their title against Tuensang on Thursday.

Speaking exclusively to Mokokchung Times, Eshong said his contribution to the team was about more than individual achievement.

“I am not just playing for myself, I am playing for the badge, for my teammates, and for every person back home who has believed in us.” he said.

Eshong’s contribution has been particularly significant in the knockout stages. He scored twice in Mon’s 4-2 quarter-final victory over Longleng on October 23 before netting both goals in the 2-1 semi-final win over Peren on October 26. The semi-final victory was especially meaningful for Mon, who had lost 2-1 to Peren in the 2024 edition. This time, Eshong’s brace helped Mon avenge that defeat and secure their place in the final.

With established players such as Arap, Manton and Laiwang Konyak absent from the squad, Eshong has shouldered a greater share of the attacking responsibility.

“Honestly, I did work hard for this, but I didn’t count the numbers. As a striker you always want to score, but I just focused on helping the team win every match. To see it turn into goals is a blessing, and it has surprised me a little — but it shows that hard work does pay off,” he said.

As his performances bring increasing expectations, Eshong acknowledged the pressure of carrying the hopes of his district but said he regarded it as motivation.

“When I know the whole district is watching, I want to give 100% more. I don’t think too much about pressure on the field, I just focus on my job – score, assist, work for the team. The fans’ love makes me stronger,” he said.

Behind his emergence as a forward is a football journey that began in a different position. Before becoming one of Mon’s leading scorers, Eshong represented Nagaland as a goalkeeper. He joined the Nagaland State Sports Academy in 2016 and was part of the team that won the Subroto Cup in 2022, earning the Best Goalkeeper award.

His football journey began in his village, where he played barefoot with friends. He recalled being drawn to goalkeeping, enjoying the dives and the gloves that came with the position.

The transition from goalkeeper to striker happened about one to two years ago, when his coaches noticed his speed and attacking instincts and encouraged him to play further up the pitch.

“One day in training they told me to play up front, and I scored. After that I never looked back,” he said. “I felt more free. I could express myself more as a striker. It was the best decision for me.”

The change has proved fruitful during this year’s Dr T Ao Trophy, where he has combined his attacking ability with an understanding of how defenders and goalkeepers anticipate play. Eshong believes his experience between the posts continues to help him as a forward.

“Being a goalkeeper taught me how to read the game, how a defender thinks, and how a striker should move. That time made me who I am today,” Eshong said.

He credited his family, local coaches, teammates and the people of Mon district for supporting his development. His father, Changki Konyak, who also played football, has been a major influence on his career.

“My father is my first coach and my hero. He was a footballer himself, so he understands the struggles,” Eshong said.

He recalled that his father taught him discipline, humility after victory and resilience after defeat. The most important lesson, he said, was to respect the game and remain committed to it.

Mon will face Tuensang in the final of the Dr T Ao Trophy 2026 at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on Thursday, October 29, at 4 pm. Tuensang booked their place in the final after defeating Zunheboto on penalties.

Eshong expects a tough contest against the finalists but said Mon were determined to win the trophy.

“Tuensang is a champion team with great character. Beating Zunheboto on penalties shows their mentality. We respect them, but we have come this far for one reason – to win the trophy. We expect a tough, high-intensity final and we are ready,” he said.

For the young forward, the final presents an opportunity to help Mon defend their crown and reward the supporters who have stood behind the team throughout the tournament.

“Wherever we play, we feel your prayers and support. Please keep supporting us, keep believing in us. We will try to make Mon proud till the end. This journey is for you,” he said.

As he prepares for the final, the former goalkeeper will once again be central to Mon’s hopes of retaining the Dr T Ao Trophy.