Nagaland: Pujenvong FC retains title at 17th Saramati Soccer C’ship

The 17th Saramati Soccer Championship 2025, organised by the Saramati Nexus Club (SNC), concluded at Pungro, Kiphire district, under the theme “Together We Burgeon the Game.” The week-long tournament was held from December 10 to 17.
In the final match, defending champions Pujenvong FC defeated Phuvle FC 4–1 to clinch the title for the second consecutive time. In the individual awards category, Varude of Pujenvong FC was adjudged the Golden Glove winner, while teammate Azikha Augustine secured the Golden Boot award. Aaron of Phuvle FC was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding performance.
The inaugural programme was graced by Economics and Statistics Officer, Department of School Education, Government of Nagaland, Tsupithong, as the chief guest. In his address, he encouraged the youth to dream big through sports, stressing that sportsmanship holds great value in the modern generation. He also urged elders and leaders of the Pungro area to extend cooperation and guidance towards achieving excellence in sports. The session began with an invocation by Pastor Chipong of UPC, followed by a special song presented by Tsuyola, after which the tournament was officially declared open.
Delivering the presidential address, SNC president Adilen Yimkhiung highlighted that the championship has grown beyond a sporting event into a vibrant community movement.
He noted that the tournament consistently provides a platform for young talents to emerge while fostering spirited competition and enthusiastic public participation. He further emphasized that football promotes values such as discipline, teamwork, respect, resilience, and unity in diversity, adding that such events strengthen social cohesion during challenging times.
The closing ceremony was attended by president of the Pungro Sub-Division Timber Traders Union (PSDTTU), Chipong, as special guest. He spoke on the importance of youth as a vital resource and their role in bringing positive change for future generations. Assistant Commandant of Assam Rifles, Pungro, K. B. Darjee, also encouraged the youth to associate themselves with security forces, highlighting sports as a strong foundation for such careers.