KLOFT clinches title at 9th Kohima Lotha Inter-Colony Father’s Football Tournament

The Kohima Lotha Officer’s Football Team (KLOFT) emerged as champions of the 9th edition of the Kohima Lotha Inter-Colony Father’s Football Tournament, defeating PAUN United 1–0 in a thrilling 80-minute final match held at IG Stadium on Tuesday.
The tournament, organized by the Kohima Lotha Hoho (KLH), witnessed spirited participation and community engagement. In the exhibition match preceding the final, Kohima Lotha Student’s Union (KLSU) secured a 2–0 victory over the Lotha Student’s Union. PAUN United Youth was declared the winner of the Youth Penalty Shoot-out event.
Addressing the closing ceremony as the special guest, former Member of Parliament and ex-KLH chairman, Khyomo Lotha, emphasized the cultural significance of football among the Nagas. Reflecting on his own experience as a team captain in earlier years, he underscored the value of participation over victory, attributing the players’ involvement to their good health and stamina.
“Health has become very expensive,” Lotha remarked, urging attendees to prioritize physical well-being, discipline, and sincerity to remain active in sports. He commended KLH officials for their dedication in organizing the tournament, which he said fosters community bonding and friendship.
Lotha also highlighted the historical importance of IG Stadium, noting its development under the leadership of three former Prime Ministers—Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee—and expressed gratitude that the tournament could be hosted at such a venue.
In a gesture of goodwill, KLOFT donated their winning cash prize to KLH in support of the upcoming Kohima Lotha Hoho 50th Jubilee celebration, scheduled for November 2025.
The closing ceremony was chaired by KLH treasurer L. Yanremo Mozhui. Invocation and benediction were led by pastor of Kohima Lotha AG Church, Khonbemo Ngullie and pastor of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church Mhonchumo S. Lotha respectively. Special musical performances by KLH vice president E. Motsuthung Lotha and Chumrenthung Humtsoe captivated the audience. KLH chairman K.N. Mhonthung Lotha delivered the vote of thanks, while Games & Sports Secretary, M. Mhao Kikon moderated the prize distribution.