Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday said that the Capt. N. Kengurüse, MVC, Memorial Football Tournament was a tribute to valour and a celebration of courage, discipline and the unifying power of sports.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural programme of the 9th Capt. N. Kengurüse, MVC, Memorial Football Tournament held at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, here. The tournament is being organised by 45 Assam Rifles under the aegis of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA).
Rio said it was a matter of great honour and privilege to inaugurate a tournament dedicated to one of Nagaland’s most illustrious sons—Capt. Neikezhakuo Kengurüse, MVC—whose courage and supreme sacrifice during the Kargil conflict continued to inspire generations.
He said the tournament was not merely a celebration of football but also a tribute to Capt. Kengurüse’s bravery, discipline, teamwork and unwavering dedication to duty. Describing him as a “symbol of the indomitable spirit of the Naga youth and an embodiment of the highest ideals of service to the nation,” Rio said his name remained carved in the golden annals of India’s military history and resonated deeply in the hearts of every sports enthusiast.
The chief minister remarked that football held a special place in the lives and culture of the Naga people as it united communities, shaped the character of the youth, and instilled values that transcended the playing field. He urged young players to emulate the late captain’s virtues of courage, perseverance and sportsmanship, adding that the tournament provided an opportunity for them to embody his legacy both in victory and in defeat.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Assam Rifles, the Directorate of Youth Resources and Sports, the NFA, and the organising committee, Rio said their collective work helped keep alive the legacy of Capt. Kengurüse and strengthened the social fabric that binds the Naga people together.
Highlighting the State Government’s initiatives to promote football, Rio said the 2024 edition of the Nagaland Super League (NSL) was a “resounding success” and was recognised as the best new league in India. He added that tournaments such as the Dr. T. Ao Trophy and the NSF Martyrs’ Trophy had further strengthened the state’s football ecosystem.
On infrastructure development, he said astroturf grounds were being constructed in all districts to ensure that modern facilities reached every corner of the state. He pointed out that football was now creating opportunities and generating employment across multiple sectors, becoming an important driver of Nagaland’s growing creative economy.
Announcing that the second season of the NSL would soon commence with an expanded format, Rio expressed confidence that it would be even bigger than the previous edition. Declaring the tournament open, he called upon everyone to unite in pride and purpose to build a future worthy of the sacrifices made by the state’s heroes.
“May this tournament be a grand celebration of sports, culture and courage,” he said, adding that it should inspire both players and spectators “to strive higher, dream bigger, and serve selflessly, as Capt. Kengurüse so nobly did.”
Earlier, the chief minister unveiled the tournament trophies, released a comic book on Capt. Kengurüse, met the team captains and officially kicked off the tournament.
Delivering his address, GOC Spear Corps, Lt. Gen. Abhijit S. Pendharkar, described the event as a “tribute to an extraordinary soldier and a national hero whose sacrifice continues to illuminate our path.” Recalling Capt. Kengurüse’s heroism during the Kargil War, he narrated how the young officer from Nerhema village had climbed barefoot on icy cliffs under extreme conditions to neutralise a Pakistani machine gun post before making the ultimate sacrifice.
He said Capt. Kengurüse’s heroism epitomised the spirit of Facta Non Verba—Deeds, Not Words, and reflected the rich martial traditions of the Naga people. He urged young footballers to draw inspiration from the captain’s courage and determination, saying that both football and military service demanded discipline, teamwork and resilience.
Lt. Gen. Pendharkar said the memorial tournament symbolised the strong bond between the armed forces and the people of Nagaland, demonstrating how sports could serve as a bridge of unity and mutual respect. “One State, One Game, One Goal—United in the memory of a true Braveheart,” he concluded.
NFA president, K. Neibou Sekhose, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the Assam Rifles for partnering with the NFA in organising the prestigious event. He said the tournament not only promoted football but also honoured the courage and sacrifice of Capt. Kengurüse. He also thanked the chief minister for his continued support and commitment to sports development in the state.
Capt. Kengurüse’s father, Neiselie Kengurüse, expressed gratitude to the chief minister, the Army, Assam Rifles, and all participants for honouring the memory of his son. He reminded the gathering that the late captain was “not my son alone but the son of Nagaland,” and hoped that the tournament would inspire younger generations.
NFA head of coaches, Roko Angami, administered the players’ oath to the team captains of all the participating teams.
The opening ceremony, compered by Medolenuo Ambrocia Loucü and Vizosienuo Shüya, featured a video presentation on Capt. Kengurüse’s life, an invocation prayer by Lhoukuolie Khro, pastor of Tsiesema Baptist Church, a victory dance (Ekhyo Shari) by students of Fernbrook School, Wokha, and special performances by rapper Moko Koza and school children.
The national anthem was led by NIEDO students, while team captains entered the field alongside the official tournament mascot, marking the start of the competition, which will run from October 22 to November 6.
Adroit Boys Sechü Zubza edge past Tehok FC
Adroit Boys Sechü Zubza began their campaign in the 9th Capt. N. Kengurüse, MVC, Memorial Football Tournament with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Tehok FC in the opening match played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on Tuesday.
The encounter was evenly balanced throughout, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and defensive resilience.
Adroit Boys held a slight advantage in possession with 51.96% against Tehok FC’s 48.04%, but neither side managed to assert complete dominance in the early stages.
The breakthrough came in the 60th minute of the second half when Neikedozo (9) of Adroit Boys Sechü Zubza converted a well-constructed move to give his team the lead. Despite creating several promising chances, Tehok FC were unable to find the equaliser as the match drew to a tense finish.
Both teams registered nine shots on target each, highlighting the competitive nature of the contest.
However, Adroit Boys proved more enterprising in attack, recording 14 shots off target compared to Tehok FC’s four. The teams were level in corner kicks with two each, while Tehok FC edged slightly in set-piece opportunities with five free kicks against Adroit Boys’ four.
Tehok FC committed 14 fouls and were caught offside four times, indicating moments of pressure and frustration as they chased the game. Adroit Boys, on the other hand, maintained composure and defensive organisation to preserve their narrow lead until the final whistle. With the win, Adroit Boys Sechü Zubza secured three points and will take confidence from their gritty performance in the tournament opener.
Wednesday’s Match
Auyang FC (Tuensang)
Vs Lüshe FC (Phek) at 10 a.m.
Head Hunters FC (164 Naga TA) Vs Detroit FC (Chümoukedima) at 12 noon.