The ongoing Dr. T. Ao Inter-District Football Trophy 2025 saw high-octane performances across multiple venues, with Kohima, Chümoukedima, Mokokchung and Mon emerging victorious in their respective matches.
Kohima thrash Meluri 5-1
Kohima delivered a commanding performance against Meluri with a 5–1 win in Match 10. The team took control early in the game, showcasing clinical finishing and dominance in midfield. Kohima’s aggressive pressing and precise passing overwhelmed Meluri’s defensive setup.
Kevizakie opened the scoring in the 6th minute, followed by a second goal from Nisede in the 15th. Team captain Kevisanyü Peseyie added a brace in the 19th and in first-half stoppage time (35+1’), asserting his control in midfield and setting the pace for the match. Although Meluri managed to pull one back in the 47th minute through Asie, Kohima responded swiftly as Thejasetuo netted the fifth goal in the 50th minute.
Kevisanyü Peseyie was identified as the key player of the match, contributing not only two goals but also dictating play through composed passing and ball control.
Chümoukedima blank Noklak 4-0
Chümoukedima produced a dominant display to outclass Noklak 4–0 in Match 11. From the onset, the team exerted control through disciplined pressing and effective ball circulation. Kekru put Chümoukedima ahead in the 25th minute, before Paotinsat extended the lead just after the restart in the 45th. The team continued its attacking momentum with Vikholie adding a third in the 55th minute, and Kekru completing his brace in second-half stoppage time (70+2’).
Captain and goalkeeper Neithovilie played a crucial role in the team’s success, executing pinpoint distributions and making several critical saves to maintain a clean sheet.
Key takeaways from the match included Chümoukedima’s dominant midfield presence, their clinical finishing converting all four of their clear chances and the defensive stability provided by Neithovilie’s leadership at the back.
Mokokchung rout Kiphire 6-0
Mokokchung routed Kiphire 6–0 in Match 12, registering one of the most comprehensive victories of the tournament so far. The match began with an own goal from Kiphire’s Nyeiwang in the 12th minute, which tilted the momentum early in favour of Mokokchung.
Tongpangnokdang doubled the lead in the 18th minute with a composed strike. Sentisang then stole the spotlight with a sensational hat-trick, scoring in the 36th, 41st and 48th minutes, effectively shutting down Kiphire’s chances of a comeback. Substitute Moajang added a sixth goal in the 67th minute.
The match was played in good spirit with no cards issued. Mokokchung’s dominance in all departments midfield control, attacking efficiency and defensive discipline was evident throughout the game. Sentisang’s hat-trick was the standout individual performance, while Moajang’s impact as a substitute further highlighted the team’s depth.
Kiphire, on the other hand, will be compelled to reassess its defensive strategy and composure under pressure following the heavy defeat.
Mon ease past Niuland 2-1
In one of the most intense matches of the tournament so far, Mon edged past Niuland 2–1 in Match 13. Both teams exhibited aggression and purpose from the start, setting the stage for a high-tempo encounter.
Mon took the lead in the 38th minute through a thunderous strike by Tingshak. The lead was doubled shortly after the break when Laiwang Bohham found the net in the 54th minute. However, Niuland responded immediately as Hivika reduced the deficit in the 56th minute, triggering a wave of sustained attacks from his side.
Despite the relentless pressure, Mon held firm in defence, repelling multiple attempts and managing to preserve their narrow lead. The match was marked by its physical intensity, drawing comparisons to classic World Cup fixtures, with close to 18,000 viewers tuning in online to watch the matches. Laiwang Bohham’s goal proved pivotal in securing the win, while the resilience shown by the Mon backline under pressure was widely praised.
Wednesday’s matches
Tseminyu Vs Peren – 9 AM
Shamator Vs Zunheboto – 11 AM
Wokha Vs Phek – 1 PM
Dimapur Vs Longleng – 3 PM