Dilong is 6th Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2025 champion

Morung Express News
Mokokchung | April 5

Dilong Ward wrote their name into Mokokchung football history after clinching their maiden title in the 6th Mokokchung Inter-Ward Football Tournament 2025 with a 2-0 victory over former champions Sangtemla Ward at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex on Saturday.

In front of a lively crowd, the much anticipated final saw both teams display contrasting styles—Sangtemla with technical finesse and Dilong with sheer grit and determination. The first half was dominated by Sangtemla, who created several scoring opportunities. A handball in the box by a Dilong defender gifted Sangtemla a golden chance, but right-winger Meyasenba sent the penalty wide.

Sangtemla came close on two other occasions, rattling the crossbar twice. Despite their chances, the score remained goalless at the break.

The second half continued with both teams pressing forward in search of a breakthrough. It was Dilong who finally broke the deadlock in the 76th minute when striker Takotuba capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the keeper. Sangtemla pushed hard to find the equalizer but were unable to convert their chances. In stoppage time, Temsutoshi sealed the win for Dilong in the 92nd minute, finishing a corner delivered by Takotuba to secure a historic 2-0 victory.

This year’s tournament featured 13 of the 18 wards under Mokokchung municipality. A total of 23 matches were played, with 52 goals scored since the tournament kicked off on March 25.

The champions, Dilong Ward, received a trophy, certificates, and a cash prize of Rs 50,000. Runners-up Sangtemla Ward were awarded Rs 30,000 along with certificates. Six individual accolades, each carrying a cash prize of Rs 2,000 and certificates, were also presented:

•    Emerging Player: Longkham (Sungkomen Ward)
•    Best Defender: Moachang (Dilong Ward)
•    Highest Scorer: Tarepnungsang (Sungkomen Ward) – 6 goals
•    Best Goalkeeper: Imtisashi (Dilong Ward)
•    Player of the Tournament: Nungshisashi (Sangtemla Ward)
•    Best Coach: Bendangsunep (Dilong Ward)
•    Best Disciplined Team: Kumlong Ward