Dr T AO Trophy 2025: Mon storms into knockout stage with 3–1 win over Shamator, defending champions Tuensang exit

The Mon faithful arrived in full force, their chants echoing across the stadium hours before kick-off. Known for never failing to turn up for their heroes, the Mon supporters created a wall of sound that carried their team to glory and into the knockout stage.

Yet it was Shamator who stunned the crowd first. In the 15th minute, Apong made history by netting Shamator’s first goal of the tournament, a powerful header from a corner kick that briefly silenced the stands. For a moment, it seemed the underdogs might script the perfect upset.

But Mon’s response was as ruthless as it was inevitable. K. Arap equalized in the 35+2 minute with a composed finish that reignited the crowd. Then, after the break, Laiwang struck in the 47th minute, turning the tide completely. The stadium erupted in thunderous roars again, every pass and tackle cheered like a goal.

As Shamator pushed forward in desperation, gaps opened up. Arap pounced again in the 60th minute, doubling his tally and putting the result beyond doubt. Mon’s players celebrated with their fans, who were already singing about the knockout stage glory to come.

The only sour note for Shamator came when Solen picked up a yellow card in the 4th minute, a sign of the early physicality that defined their approach.

Mon’s 3–1 victory not only sealed their qualification but also reaffirmed their status as one of the tournament’s most supported and spirited sides. Shamator, despite the loss, will cherish the memory of finally finding the back of the net in this campaign.

MT