In a tense final at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Konyak Students Union Mokokchung (KSUM) pulled off a stunning 1-0 win over three-time defending champions Telongjem FC to win their maiden MDFA title. The match, played before a packed and energetic crowd, saw KSUM take the early lead and hold off Telongjem’s advances to lift the prestigious MDFA trophy.
KSUM started the match on the front foot and capitalized on their strong start when Angki Konyak scored the lone goal of the match in the 13th minute, sending the underdogs ahead. The early goal shifted the momentum slightly, and while the pace of the match slowed afterward, KSUM’s confidence grew. Telongjem, known for their possession-based play, struggled to break through KSUM’s resolute defense despite dominating ball control for much of the first half. The opening 45 minutes ended with KSUM leading 1-0.
The second half saw Telongjem ramp up their attacking efforts, with their best chance coming when they hit the post from a corner kick. However, KSUM remained dangerous on the counterattack and continued to frustrate their opponents. The game became increasingly tense as the clock ticked down, with both teams creating half-chances but neither able to deliver a decisive blow. As five minutes of injury time were added, Telongjem pushed hard for the equalizer, but KSUM’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
The KSUM players and fans erupted in joy as they defied expectations to secure their first MDFA championship, dethroning the heavily favored Telongjem FC, who had already beaten KSUM 3-0 in the league stages earlier in the tournament.
KSUM was awarded Rs 2 lakh for their victory, while Telongjem FC received Rs 1 lakh as the runners-up. This was KSUM’s first appearance in an MDFA final and only their second time participating in Mokokchung’s biggest annual sporting event.
Before the match, a brief closing ceremony was held, with Chief Guest Tsuknungtemsu Lemtur, founder and CEO of Tribpic, delivering a speech. There was also a special musical performance by Hailinator, and N. Akok Longkumer, President of the Mokokchung District Football Association, gave the vote of thanks.
The cash prize for the champions was sponsored by SBI Regional Business Office, Mokokchung while the MDFA Late Nokzar Ao Trophy for the Runners-Up was donated by the Assam Rifles.
Individual Awards:
Best Goalkeeper: Nungsangyanger (Super Seniors FC)
Best Defender: Temsuyanger (Zonipang FC)
Highest Goal Scorer: Japtheth Kath (Telongjem FC)
Most Promising Player: Merangtemjen (MMSC)
Player of the Tournament Menguzelie Rhutsa (Telongjem FC)
