Players of Aspirants FC and Mez & Co 'A' along with other officials during the final match of the 3rd Kohima District Futsal Championship 2026 at Mez & Co Sports Arena in Kohima on May 30.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 31
Aspirants FC emerged champions of the 3rd Kohima District Futsal Championship 2026, organised by the Kohima District Football Association (KDFA), after defeating Mez & Co 'A' in the final at Mez & Co Sports Arena, below Medical College, P Khel, on May 30.
The champions were awarded a cash prize of Rs 20,000 along with a trophy and citation, while runners-up Mez & Co 'A' received Rs 15,000, a trophy and citation. Losing semi-finalists Mez & Co 'B' and Sechü Zubza Boys were awarded Rs 5,000 each.
In the individual categories, Metsielhouzo Rino of Aspirants FC won the Golden Glove award. Kevizakie Ciesotsu of Sechü Zubza Boys and Thejavizo Naprantsu of Aspirants FC shared the Golden Boot award after scoring 12 goals each. Radovie Rasomai of Mez & Co 'A' was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.
The prizes were presented by Neikeso Zumu, President of the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA), who described the championship as a celebration of youth, discipline, unity, sportsmanship and the growing football culture in Nagaland.
Commending KDFA President Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome and his team, Zumu praised their efforts in strengthening football in Kohima district. He highlighted football's role in bringing together youths from different communities and promoting values such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance, leadership and respect.
Zumu also acknowledged the Nagaland Government, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, for promoting sports through initiatives such as the Dr. T. Ao Trophy, support for the Nagaland Football League and other football development programmes across the state.
Emphasising the growing importance of futsal, he noted that it is among the fastest-growing formats of football globally and helps players develop quick decision-making, close ball control, speed, creativity, coordination and tactical intelligence. He reaffirmed NASA's commitment to grassroots sports development and youth empowerment.
The closing ceremony was chaired by Nekhriezonuo Miachieo, Joint Secretary (Women), KDFA, and Member Secretary of the championship.
Earlier, the inaugural ceremony was graced by Khriesazo Liezietsu, President of the Northern Angami Youth Organisation (NAYO), who congratulated the newly elected KDFA team and expressed confidence in its ability to take football in Kohima district to greater heights.
Addressing players and officials, Liezietsu urged teams to play with courage, unity and determination, stating that football transcends borders, cultures and languages while imparting valuable life lessons. He also reaffirmed NAYO's support for football development and youth initiatives in the district and presented the official NAYO jersey to the KDFA president.
Welcoming participants at the opening ceremony, KDFA General Secretary Viliebeizo Liezietsu said the championship was more than a tournament and served as a platform to celebrate the growing stature of football and futsal in the state capital.
He informed that KDFA has a packed calendar ahead, including the inaugural KDFA Football Championship tentatively scheduled for August 2026, besides preparations for the Nagaland Olympics and the 25th Dr. T. Ao Trophy.
Liezietsu also reminded players that registration under the Centralised Registration System (CRS) is mandatory for participation in all All India Football Federation-affiliated tournaments and urged footballers to complete their registrations at the earliest.
The opening ceremony was chaired by Medolenuo Ambrocia Loucü, Press Secretary and Championship Convenor. It began with a prayer by Rev. Fr. Kokto Kurian, Director of the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), while Neilaü Thaprü presented a special musical number.
The championship featured enthusiastic participation from eight teams competing in a league-cum-knockout format. Significantly, it was managed for the first time by an all-women organising committee.
Meanwhile, KDFA President Mhasimhalie Mathew Yhome expressed gratitude to all individuals and stakeholders who contributed to the successful conduct of the tournament.
