Mokokchung, 26 March (MTNews): The second edition of the Salangtem Youth Union (SYU) Open Futsal Tournament kicked off today at Mojabi Futsal Turf, Salangtem Ward, Mokokchung, with the ADC and Administrator of MMC, Chumlamo Humtsoe, gracing the occasion as the guest of honour. The 3-day tournament is organized by SYU under the auspices of the Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA), with the theme ‘Focus to Endure,’ and Nagaland Minerals & Mines as its official partner.
A total of 22 teams have registered for the 2nd SYU Open Futsal Tournament, including at least two teams from outside Mokokchung district.
The guest of honour commended SYU for organizing the tournament and lauded their proactive role in maintaining cleanliness in the ward. In his address, he emphasized the importance of character building, not just focusing on the skills displayed on the field but also on the behavior of players off the field. He encouraged players to embody good sportsmanship, which would contribute positively to society. Humtsoe also congratulated Salangtem Ward for winning the Best Maintained Ward under MMC in 2023.
Salangtem Ward Chairman Lanuakum also delivered a brief speech, advising youth to prepare for an AI-based world and urging them to set achievable goals and realistic aspirations. He emphasized the importance of intelligence and focus in achieving success, while also stressing the importance of sportsmanship and discipline.
Imnayanger, Tournament Secretary of MDFA, speaking on behalf of the president of MDFA, said that the MDFA was ready to offer technical support. He mentioned that the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) would be organizing the Nagaland futsal tournament in August, hinting that talented players are expected to be scouted through this tournament to represent the district in the state tournament.
The guest of honour unveiled the tournament mascot and officially declared the tournament open.
On the opening day, a total of 10 matches were played, with Revenant FC ‘B’ defeating Genesis FAC by 6-1 in the inaugural match. G Sports FC, Alempang YA, Longpa Lumuden, Tongdentsuyong YA, The Red Devils, Revenant ‘A’, MC Brothers, Ignite, and Chargers FC emerged victorious in today’s matches.
Wednesday will see a total of 8 matches, with the semifinals, third-place playoff, and final scheduled for Thursday. The tournament follows a knockout format.
