TDFA kicks off first-ever district league in Tuensang

Moses Hongang Chang
Tuensang | July 11

A historic chapter in Tuensang district’s sporting history began on Friday as the Tuensang District Football Association (TDFA) officially launched its first-ever district league, the TDFA League 2025, at Loyem Memorial Astro-Turf Ground in Tuensang town.

The league, organised under the theme “Reviving Football Culture in the District,” features eight participating teams: Auyang FC, Fusion FC, Naga Brothers FC, Rise of Strangers FC, Sonshang FC, Soyem Sangya FC, Tuensang Village Sports Foundation, and Winzig Konigz FC.

The opening ceremony was graced by Longpoksang Lemtur, NPS, Superintendent of Police Tuensang and member of the District Sports Council, as guest of honour. Speaking on the occasion, Lemtur lauded TDFA’s initiative, describing the league as “not just about football, but about channeling the potential of our youth into meaningful growth and discipline.”

TDFA President S. Menyawongto Chang, in his keynote address, called the league “a grassroots milestone for homegrown footballers.” Brief speeches were also delivered by N. Kaimang, President of Tuensang Village Citizens’ Union, and Takam, President of Chang Sports Association.

The opening ceremony was hosted by Hanchila, with an invocation by Ronglikhum, Associate Pastor (Youth), Sangtam Baptist Lithro.

Day 1 Matches: Comebacks and High-Scoring Thrillers
In the opening match, Sonshang FC took an early lead through Chongshen (29’), but Soyem Sangya FC equalised before halftime via Imlong Sanchu. Despite being reduced to ten men after goalkeeper Kümzük’s red card, Soyem staged a dramatic comeback with goals from Bamo Lemba (58’) and Changlemba (60’), winning 3-1. Changlemba (jersey no. 15) was named Man of the Match.

The second match of the day saw Winzig Konigz FC edge Auyang FC in a seven-goal thriller. Auyang led 3-2 at halftime with goals from Nokching, W. Mange, and Chang Yeman. Winzig’s goalkeeper Sangle Tonbou kept them in the contest with a penalty save early in the second half, sparking a comeback. Changlimba and Sangso scored again for Winzig, sealing a 4-3 win. Changlimba (jersey no. 14) was awarded Man of the Match for his brace and playmaking.

League Format and Prize Pool
The TDFA League 2025 will run until September 27, featuring a playoff stage for the top four teams. A total prize pool of Rs 1.75 lakh has been announced, with the champions and runners-up to receive cash prizes, trophies, medals, and certificates.

Individual awards include Golden Boot, Golden Ball, Golden Glove, Emerging Player (U-20), and a Fair Play Award aimed at promoting sportsmanship alongside competition.