Medoviu Martin Suohu and others during Phesama Mini World Cup 2026 -A Replica on August 14. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 14
The 8th edition of Phesama Mini World Cup 2026- A Replica with the theme “Connecting Phesama,” commenced today at St. Paul School Ground, Phesama in Kohima district. The tournament, organised as a replica of the FIFA World Cup, brings together football enthusiasts from Phesama to celebrate the sport and strengthen community spirit.
Six teams from four khels of Phesama are vying for the championship , wearing the uniforms of six countries – Italy, Argentina, England, Japan, Brazil and Spain.
Gracing the opening ceremony as the chief guest, Medoviu Martin Suohu, Councillor of Ward 19, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC), expressed appreciation to the organisers for bringing people together through sports. He said it was encouraging to see unity being fostered through the tournament.
Describing football as a very popular sport, Suohu said the game requires coordination, combination and teamwork, along with a strong support base. He encouraged the organisers to continue the event and further strengthen the initiative in the years ahead.
In keynote address, Vizokho Zashümo said the “Phesama Mini World Cup- A replica” has grown into a major community sporting event, bringing together youth and football enthusiasts while promoting unity, fellowship and sporting talent.
He said that the tournament has become a distinctive football tradition in Phesama, held in the spirit of the FIFA World Cup.
The inaugural ceremony was chaired by Thejanguzo Zashümo, Convener of the Organising Committee and commenced with a prayer by Fr. Rajesh Lobo, SJ, Parish Priest and Principal, St. Paul Institute of Education.
Menuoselie Zashümo presented the theme song.
Neilekho Zütso, 1st Class Contractor and Kevizayie Peter, Accounts Officer, Development Authority of Nagaland will be the match patrons for the 1st and 2nd semi finals respectively.
The closing ceremony will take place on August 15 at 2:30 PM with C. Hachio Patton, PRO to Deputy Chief Minister (Home & Border Affairs) Nagaland as the chief guest.
