The stage is set for the 27th Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) Trophy, which will run from October 14 to 25, featuring a strong line-up of former champions, emerging clubs and institutional teams.
Konyak Students’ Union Mokokchung (KSUM) will begin their title defence against a field packed with contenders. Telongjem FC, three-time consecutive champions, are back to reclaim their dominance. KSUM are perhaps the only debut team to have lifted the trophy since OCYA won the inaugural title in 1993. Telongjem FC, on the other hand, have featured in the finals of the last four editions, winning three of them. In 2023, they joined Arkong SC and Snipers FC as the only teams to win the trophy three consecutive times. If they win this year, they will become the first team in MDFA history to lift the trophy four times. No team has yet won the trophy more than three times.
Meanwhile, Intermingle Club, the 2018 winners, return with hopes of reviving their past form.
Team Gilgal from Chuchuyimlang, semi-finalists last year, will look to build on their impressive run and push for the final this time.
One team that has become synonymous with the tournament is Sports Society Soyim. They hold the record for the most participations and are the only club to have featured in every edition of the tournament.
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The tournament will also feature Nagaland University Lumami as the institutional invitee from Zunheboto, adding a wider district flavour to the competition.
Super Seniors FC, a team of veteran players from Mokokchung playing for the love of the game. Formed to revive interest in local football, Super Seniors bring experience, grit and a mentor-like presence on the field.
Several new clubs will make their debut this year, adding fresh competition.
Chargers FC, formed by experienced players from Moanungsang Memorial FC, Revenant FC and Zonipang FC alongside futsal youngsters, are being tipped as a team to watch.
Thunderbolt FC enter the fray for the first time.
Sangpang Riju Sporting Club from Chuchuyimpang, made up of former Amokmulu players, bring strong local backing. Amokmulu have been the champions of 2000.
Doyang Strikers Mokokchung, representing the Lotha Naga community in Mokokchung, add another distinct flair to the line-up.
With defending champions, seasoned campaigners and ambitious newcomers all in the mix, the 27th MDFA Trophy promises eleven days of competitive football and high community engagement in Mokokchung.
