2nd ATL Cup: Strikers lead as matchday 3 delivers goals & drama

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Matchday 3 of the ATL Cup (Above 35) 2nd edition brought high drama and a flurry of goals across the DGP Ground and 1st NAP Ground on Saturday, as teams battled fiercely for supremacy in the veterans’ league.
Natak FC vs Old Boys FC
At the 1st NAP Ground, Natak FC edged Old Boys FC 1–0 in a tightly contested opener. The decisive strike came in the 13th minute when Viketoulie (#17) capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the winner. His match-winning effort earned him Man of the Match honors. Despite a spirited second-half push with key substitutions, Old Boys FC failed to break through Natak’s resolute defense.
Nizam Legends vs Nizam FC
Simultaneously at the DGP Ground, Nizam Legends stunned Nizam FC with a 4–2 victory. Atovi (#22) led the charge with a brilliant brace (6’, 34’), supported by goals from Ayu (#12) and Nchum (#7). Nizam FC responded through C. Temsu (#26) and Ketho (#10), but the Legends’ structure held firm. Atovi’s commanding display earned him the Man of the Match accolade.
Strikers Club vs Nova Old Stars
In the afternoon clash at DGP Ground, Strikers Club continued their dominant run with a 5–1 demolition of Nova Old Stars. Hikato (#17) opened the scoring in the 13th minute and orchestrated play throughout, securing Man of the Match recognition. Khetoho (#9) struck twice (6’, 16’), while Joseph (#8) added another before halftime. Nova Old Stars managed a consolation through Lithungu (#27) in the 49th minute, but Strikers Club remained in full control.
Trinity Sporting vs Super Strikers
At the 1st NAP Ground, Trinity Sporting edged Super Strikers 3–2 in a thrilling contest. Abenthung (#8) converted a 27th-minute penalty, followed by Rijolong (#46) in the 56th minute. Super Strikers rallied with goals from Kewi (#8) and Aloto (#4) in stoppage time, but substitute Imliyanger struck decisively in the 59th minute to seal the win. Digymbpeung (#19) was named Man of the Match for his crucial contributions.
With three consecutive wins, Strikers Club tops the table with a perfect 9 points, while Trinity Sporting and Nizam FC trail on 6 points each. The mid-table battle remains intense as teams prepare for Matchday 4, where the race for knockout-stage qualification is set to heat up further.