The ongoing Mokokchung Inter Ward Football Tournament 2026 saw another former champion eliminated on Wednesday at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, as 2021 champions Artang Ward’s quest for a second title was ended by Sungkomen Ward in the first semifinal. Last edition’s semifinalists Sungkomen are now one win away from their maiden title as they await the winners of the Mongsenbai-Tongdentsuyong clash on Thursday.
Mongsenbai, the 2022 champions, are also in contention for a second title, while Tongdentsuyong are yet to win the trophy. If Tongdentsuyong win the second semifinal, the tournament will have a new champion, the seventh ward to lift the title. However, if Mongsenbai go on to win, they will become only the second team after Arkong Ward to win the tournament twice.
In the first semifinal, Sungkomen striker and last edition’s top scorer Tarepnungsang put his side ahead in the 10th minute, giving them a 1-0 lead at half time. Chubalemba equalized for Artang in the 52nd minute, but Sungkomen regained control as Lipoksungba and Lipoksunep scored in the 61st and 68th minutes. The match ended 3-1 in favour of Sungkomen, securing their place in the final.
The second semifinal between Mongsenbai Ward and Tongdentsuyong Ward will kick off at 2:00 pm.
