Zonipang today
The last two matches of the group stages of the ongoing MDFA Trophy 2024 were played today at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, between NU Lumamai and LY Misfits, and between Telongjem FC and Konyak Students’ Union Mokokchung (KSUM). The quarterfinal matches will begin tomorrow, with the first quarterfinal match to be played between Team Gilgal and Zonipang SC.
NU Lumami crush LYM 5-1 in second-half goal fest
NU Lumami continued their unbeaten streak in the group stages with a resounding 5-1 victory over LY Misfits, thanks to a dominant second-half display. After a quiet first half that ended goalless, the match burst into life after the break with all six goals coming in the second half.
LYM struck first in the 52nd minute when Rukune found the back of the net, giving them a brief lead. However, NU Lumami responded swiftly, leveling the score just three minutes later through M Phaowang, who went on to steal the show. Phaowang completed a superb hat-trick with further goals in the 71st and 84th minutes, cementing NU Lumami’s control of the game.
His teammate, Neili, added to the tally with a late brace, scoring in the 82nd and 85th minutes to secure a comprehensive victory. NU Lumami’s attacking firepower has set them up as strong contenders as they advance into the quarter finals of tournament as Pool-C winners.
With their unbeaten run intact, NU Lumami will be a team to watch as the competition progresses.
Telongjem FC humble KSUM 3-0
Defending champions Telongjem FC secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Konyak Students’ Union Mokokchung (KSUM), cruising into the knockout stages of the tournament as they chase a fourth consecutive title. Despite a goalless first half, Telongjem’s second-half resurgence saw them take full control of the match.
The deadlock was broken in the 53rd minute when Zhotso fired home to give Telongjem the lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the game. From that moment, Telongjem dominated possession and dictated the pace, keeping KSUM on the back foot.
With Telongjem pressing for more, it was Japtheth Kath who put the game beyond doubt, scoring twice in quick succession in the 83rd and 85th minutes. His double sealed a comfortable win for Telongjem, ensuring they maintain their status as favorites to lift the trophy for the fourth consecutive time, an unparalleled record in the history of the tournament.
Despite their loss today, KSUM still scrap through to the next round on superior goal difference against former champions Amokmolu SC. Telongjem FC had already qualified for the second round before today’s match. As Pool-D runner-up team, KSUM will meet Pool-C winners NU Lumami in the quarter finals while Telongjem FC will face Pool-C runner-up Eastern Wing.
Leading Goal Scorers
M Phaowang (NU Lumami), Imnatoshi (Zonipang), and Sentisang (Team Gilgal) are the leading goal scorers of the tournament so far with 4 goals each to their names.
Thejastou Gwirie (Super Seniors FC), Nungsangtoshi (MMSC), Japtheth Kath ( Telongjem FC), and Neilie (NU Lumami) are trailing behind them with 3 goals each.