Mon players strike a triumphant pose with the trophy after defeating Tuensang 4–2 in the penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw in the grand final of the 25th Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Tournament – Silver Jubilee Edition 2026, retaining the title back-to-back at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 29. (Photo Courtesy: NFA Media)
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 29
Mon retained the Dr T Ao Trophy after defeating Tuensang 4-2 in a penalty shootout in the final of the 25th Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Championship, which ended 1-1 at the Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 29.
The Silver Jubilee edition final saw Mon take an early lead before Tuensang struck late in regulation time to force a shootout. Mon held their nerve from the spot to emerge champions after a closely contested encounter between the two district teams.
Mon went ahead in the 10th minute through an own goal credited to Namang. The early breakthrough gave the defending champions an advantage, but Tuensang continued to fight for an equaliser and kept the contest open.
With the match entering its closing stages, Tuensang found the breakthrough in the 85th minute through S Ayenmongba, restoring parity and setting up a tense finish. Neither side could find a winner before the final whistle, sending the championship decider into a penalty shootout.
Mon converted their chances to win the shootout 4-2 and secure the title, bringing the Silver Jubilee edition to a close with a hard-fought victory. Tuensang, who had battled back from a goal down, finished as runners-up.
The final also marked the culmination of the tournament’s 25th edition, which brought together district teams from across Nagaland in a competition celebrating the state’s footballing talent and the legacy of Dr Talimeren Ao.
Individual Awards
• Golden Boot: Imnatoshi (Mokokchung)
• Golden Ball: Eshong Konyak (Mon)
• Golden Glove: Imtikumzuk (Tuensang)
• Best Defender: Haokhohen (Peren)
• Best Midfielder: Mughahuto (Zunheboto)
