Kohima, 16 October: Nagaland United Sporting Club (NUSC) cruised into the final of the 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy after outclassing Anal Lenruwl Tangpi (ALT) 4–0 at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on Thursday evening.
Nagaland United made an early statement when Sanathoi opened the scoring in the 9th minute, capitalising on a quick counterattack. Their attacking momentum continued as Jenish extended the lead in the 30th minute with a composed finish to make it 2–0 in the first half. In the second half, Nagaland United maintained their composure and control of the game, with Sanathoi scoring his second goal in the 82nd minute. Joel sealed the victory deep into stoppage time (90+6′) to make it 4–0, ensuring a clean sheet and a dominant scoreline.
Despite ALT’s efforts to find a way back into the match, they were unable to penetrate the disciplined defence of NUSC, who held firm until the final whistle.
With this emphatic 4–0 triumph, Nagaland United Sporting Club march into the grand finale, where they will face Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO) on October 18 to decide the new champion of the 25th edition.
The match patron for the second semi-final was Benei M. Lamthiu, Hon’ble MLA and General Secretary of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA), who also presented the Player of the Match award to Arap Konyak (15) of Nagaland United SC for his solid performance throughout the game.
