In a major turn of events at the ongoing 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy, Sadar Hills Football Academy (FA) from Manipur has officially withdrawn from the tournament to focus on the upcoming AIFF Youth League 2025–26.
The academy issued a statement on Wednesday confirming its decision, citing the need to prioritize preparations for the national-level competition. Expressing gratitude to fans, supporters, and well-wishers, the management described the move as an “important step onto the national stage.” According to the AIFF Youth League fixtures, Sadar Hills FA is set to face Muvanlai on October 5. The team was originally scheduled to play Michazou FC in their third group-stage match of the NSF Trophy on October 3 at 12:00 noon, at IG Stadium Kohima.
However, the decision has invited disciplinary action from the tournament authorities. The Jury Board of the 25th NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy 2025 announced on Wednesday that Sadar Hills FA has been handed a three-year ban from the prestigious tournament.
Citing By-Law Rule No. 24, which requires all teams to fulfil their fixture obligations, the Jury Board declared that Michazou FC would be awarded a walkover win. The rule further empowers the committee to initiate disciplinary measures against defaulting teams.
“Team management officials, 20 players and Sadar Hills Football Academy Manipur are banned from participating in the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy for three consecutive editions with immediate effect,” the Jury Board stated in its official communique.
The statement was jointly signed by Medo Yhokha, Convenor of the Steering Committee, and Diezevisie Nakhro, President of the Angami Students’ Union.