The Nagaland United Sporting Club (NUSC) scripted history at the 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2025, defeating Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO) 3–1 in a thrilling finale under the floodlights at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. A total of 45 teams participated in this landmark edition of the tournament, which kicked off on September 13, celebrating 25 years of footballing legacy, unity, and brotherhood in memory of late Kekuojalie Sachü and late Vikhozo Yhoshü, who sacrificed their lives during a peaceful protest in Kohima on March 20, 1986.
NUSC wasted no time asserting dominance, with Arap Konyak opening the scoring in the 7th minute. The team doubled their advantage through Joel Haokip’s sharp strike in the 28th minute, putting Chedema’s defence on the back foot. After the break, Manton Konyak extended the lead with a brilliant finish in the 46th minute, solidifying Nagaland United’s control of the game. An unfortunate own goal in the 79th minute gave Chedema a glimmer of hope, but it wasn’t enough as NUSC held their ground till the final whistle, clinching the championship title and the hearts of the fans.
Chedema struggled to cope with the pressure, particularly after Benjamin’s red card in the semi-final, and had to be content with the runners-up position.
Manton and Arap Konyak, brothers from Nagaland, are rising football stars whose partnership on the field has inspired many young athletes across the state, showcasing the emerging football talent from the Konyak community and Nagaland as a whole.
The champions, Nagaland United SC, received Rs 5,00,000 with a citation and trophy, while the runners-up, Chedema Village Youth Organisation, received Rs 3,00,000 with a citation. Individual awards were presented as follows:
- Player of the Tournament: Sanathoi Metei (12), Nagaland United SC – citation and a two-wheeler
- Best Custodian (Golden Glove): Sanaton Singh (1), Nagaland United SC – Rs 25,000 with citation
- Best Defender: Hemping (4), Nagaland United SC – Rs 25,000 with citation
- Best Midfielder: Manglienboi Neihsial (80), Chedema VYO – Rs 25,000 with citation
- Top Scorer (Golden Boot): Thokchom Adison Singh (17), Mez & Co. – 10 goals, Rs 25,000 with citation
- Fair Play Award: Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong – Rs 25,000 with citation
- Most Promising Player (U-20): Suziilo Mao (6), Mao Students’ Union – Rs 25,000 with citation
- Best Coach: Khogen Singh, Nagaland United SC – Rs 10,000 with citation
- Best Referee: Thumli Joyshing Monsang – Rs 10,000 with citation
All individual trophies were sponsored by Imli Sunüp Ao, proprietor of G-Sports, Chümoukedima.
This year’s edition witnessed participation from 45 teams, including 36 from Nagaland, seven from Manipur, and one each from Sikkim and Delhi. Matches were hosted at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, and the Chümoukedima Football Stadium. The NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy was jointly organised by the Angami Students’ Union and the Naga Students’ Federation.
