CHÜMOUKEDIMA, AUG 15 (NPN): Medziphema United FC produced a commanding performance to defeat Outlaws FC 3-0 in the grand final of the 2nd edition of the Chümoukedima District Football Association (CDFA) League-cum-Rokonicha Champions Trophy 2026 on Saturday, securing the coveted Rokonicha Champions Trophy.
Despite finishing as runners-up in the CDFA League, Medziphema United rose to the occasion in the championship final, putting three goals past the league champions without conceding.
The final began with both sides looking to establish control, but Medziphema United eventually broke the deadlock in the 20th minute through Vikholie. The early goal gave Medziphema greater momentum as Outlaws struggled to find a response.
Medziphema maintained the pressure after the break and doubled their advantage in the 59th minute through Viselie Vasa. The No. 14 then struck again just two minutes later, completing his brace in the 61st minute and effectively putting the contest beyond Outlaws. Outlaws FC, despite being unable to find the net, continued to compete until the final whistle, but Medziphema’s defensive organisation and attacking efficiency ensured that the league champions were denied a comeback.
The final also saw four yellow cards. Medziphema players wearing jersey Nos. 44 and 8 were booked in the 42nd and 54th minutes respectively, while Outlaws’ Thanglenhao (No. 11) received a yellow card in the 15th minute and Nyiewang (No. 3) was booked in the 74th minute.
The victory saw Medziphema United FC lift the Rokonicha Champions Trophy, with Outlaws FC finishing as runners-up. Outlaws, however, had the consolation of being crowned CDFA League champions, with Medziphema United finishing second in the league.
In the individual honours, Outlaws goalkeeper Mhademo was awarded the Golden Gloves, while teammate Thanglenhao claimed the Golden Boot.
Medziphema United’s Viselie Vasa, whose two goals in the final proved decisive, was named Emerging Player of the Tournament. His teammate Kevisevor Zashümo received the Golden Ball award.
Speaking at the grand final as guest of honour, OSD, Youth Resources & Sports and former international footballer Roko Angami congratulated the CDFA for its efforts to promote football in Chümoukedima and beyond.
Angami said the occasion was personally meaningful to him as late Rokonicha had been his godfather and had played an important role in his life. He said dedicating the championship to Rokonicha’s memory was a meaningful way of preserving his legacy and bringing young people together through football.
Describing football as more than a sport, Angami said the game fostered unity, friendship and sportsmanship while bringing people together regardless of their social or economic backgrounds.
Drawing from his own experience as a former international footballer, he said football had given him identity, purpose and opportunities, but stressed that talent alone could not make a successful player. He urged young footballers to remain disciplined, train consistently, work hard, respect their coaches and opponents, and learn from both victories and defeats.
Angami also highlighted the initiatives of the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, including the Baby League, Grassroot Football Tournament, zonal school Pre-Subroto tournaments, Inter-KIC Tournament and Women Futsal League. He said the government had developed more than 30 futsal grounds and several artificial turf grounds across Nagaland, with more facilities under construction.
He urged young players to make full use of the opportunities and facilities available, stressing that facilities alone could not create champions and that dedication, perseverance and a willingness to improve were essential.
He expressed hope that the championship would continue to grow, nurture talented footballers and preserve the legacy of late Rokonicha for generations to come.
The grand final programme was compered by Kumli Pongen and Soyim Longkumer. The invocation was offered by president of the Medziphema Pastors’ Fellowship, Razouneizo Chalieu. Naga Idol winner Rokovotuo presented a special number, while Thejaseno Dolie and Thejavi Kuotsu made a special appearance.
The 2nd edition of the CDFA League-cum-Rokonicha Champions Trophy was organised by the Chümoukedima District Football Association as a sporting platform to promote football while commemorating the life and legacy of late Rokonicha.