Tiaren FC thrash Thulen FC 8-2 in Loyem Memorial Trophy 2026 opener

First-ever night match under floodlights at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf marks a new milestone for Tuensang football

Morung Express News
Tuensang | November 7

Tiaren FC began their campaign in the 34th Loyem Memorial Trophy 2026 with an emphatic 8-2 victory over Thulen FC in the opening match at Loyem Memorial Astro Turf, Tuensang, on November 6.

The match marked a significant milestone for football in Tuensang as it became the first-ever football match to be played at night under floodlights in the district.

Organised by the Chang Wedoshi Setshang (Chang Students' Conference), the tournament features 13 teams divided into four pools.

Tiaren FC dominated the opening encounter, with Litsari opening the scoring in the 17th minute before S. Ayenmongba doubled the lead in the 19th minute. Litsari struck again in the 32nd and 39th minutes to complete his hat-trick, while S. Ayenmongba added his second in the 50th minute.

Relitong extended Tiaren FC's advantage in the 45th minute, followed by two more goals from S. Ayenmongba in the 58th minute to complete his hat-trick and Bichemli in the 68th minute.

Thulen FC managed two consolation goals through Shing in the 65th minute and Matchei in the 70th minute, as Tiaren FC sealed an 8-2 victory.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sethrongkyu Sangtam, Advisor, IT and Communication, Economics and Statistics, and Evaluation, Government of Nagaland, as the Special Guest.

The special guest was received by the Chang-Ün Cultural Troupe, while the flag hoisting ceremony was conducted by the Tuensang District Executive Force (DEF). The programme also featured the Chang Anthem.

The 13 participating teams have been divided into four pools. Pool A comprises Thulen FC, Kingfisher FC, Tiaren FC and Mt. Pongen FC; Pool B consists of Yunghangkhu, Thangjam FC Hak and Next-Gen FC; Pool C includes Y Brothers, Nakshou FC and The East; while Pool D features Emergency FC, Hillside Strikers FC and Apex Youth FC.