Mokochung, 13 February (MTNews): The Nagaland Olympic & Paralympic Games (NOPG) 2024 saw two dramatic football semi-finals today, setting the stage for a thrilling final between Peren and Chümoukedima on Wednesday.
Peren edged out Phek in a tight encounter in the first semifinal while Chümoukedima triumphed over Dimapur after a nervy penalty shootout.
The first semi-final saw Phek and Peren lock horns in a close battle. Lamsanngin gave Peren an early lead in the 4th minute, but Yhoto equalized for Phek in the 29th minute. The game remained tied until Winamthiu emerged as the hero for Peren, scoring the winning goal in the 75th minute. Peren will now be looking to secure gold in the final.
The second semi-final between Chümoukedima and Dimapur was a nail-biter. Ghuqhe put Dimapur ahead in the 30th minute, but Limakumzuk’s last-minute equalizer in the 90th minute sent the match into extra time. After a tense 15 minutes of additional play, the match remained tied, forcing a penalty shootout. Chümoukedima held their nerve, winning 6-5 and securing their place in the final.
Both Peren and Chümoukedima have displayed impressive grit and determination throughout the tournament, making the final a highly anticipated encounter. With both teams hungry for gold, tomorrow’s match promises to be a thrilling culmination to the football competition at the NOPG 2024.
The final match between Peren and Chümoukedima starts at 2:00 PM on Wednesday at Ground A, NPTS Ground.
Meanwhile, Dimapur and Phek will battle it out for the bronze medal in an earlier match at 9:00 AM at the same venue.