Dr. T Ao Trophy: Niuland, Dmu, Phek, Tsg log wins

The Dr. T. Ao Trophy 2025 continued to thrill spectators at IG Stadium, Kohima, with Niuland, Dimapur, Phek, and Tuensang registering impressive wins in the latest round of fixtures.
In Match 6 of the tournament, Niuland delivered a dominant performance to rout Shamator 9–0 in a one-sided encounter. Niuland opened the scoring just 17 seconds after kick-off, with forward Apeto netting what has now been officially recorded as the fastest goal of the tournament.
By halftime, Niuland had already established an unassailable lead. Kakhevi struck twice in the 10th and 17th minutes before completing his hat-trick in the 34th minute. Apeto went on to register four goals (17’, 11’, 20’, 58’), while Tori and substitute Honoto added to the tally in the 27th and 39th minutes, respectively.
Niuland’s relentless pressing and swift ball circulation proved too much for Shamator, whose defense struggled to cope with the pace and movement of the opposition.
Despite the high scoreline, the match featured a single moment of ill-discipline, though details were not immediately available.
In Match 7, Dimapur secured a narrow 1–0 win over Noklak. The match remained evenly poised in the early stages, with both teams focusing on maintaining their defensive structures. Dimapur gradually gained control of possession and broke the deadlock in the 31st minute through Mangkholen, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the only goal of the match.
Noklak mounted several spirited attacks in the second half but were unable to find an equalizer. Dimapur’s defense remained compact and resolute, earning them a clean sheet. The match was played in good spirit, with no cards issued.
Analysts noted that Dimapur’s composure under pressure and Mangkholen’s match-winning strike highlighted their tactical discipline, while Noklak’s inability to convert possession into goals proved costly.
Match 8 saw Phek come from behind to defeat Kiphire 2–1 in a heated encounter. Kiphire took the lead in the 22nd minute through Longtibi, but Phek responded swiftly with a 26th-minute equalizer from Kunuzo.
In the second half, Phek turned the tide as Eneibe scored the winning goal in the 57th minute following sustained pressure. Kiphire’s challenge was further hampered by the sending off of player Abo, forcing them to play the second half with 10 men. The match saw a total of five yellow cards issued, adding to the physical nature of the contest.
Phek’s ability to maintain composure after conceding and capitalize on numerical advantage earned them a well-deserved win. Kiphire, despite an encouraging start, were ultimately undone by poor discipline and missed opportunities.
In Match 9, Tuensang claimed a comfortable 3–0 victory over Zunheboto, courtesy of a spectacular hat-trick by Ayenmongba. The striker opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a well-placed header, and just seconds into the second half, he doubled the lead with a bicycle kick that drew loud cheers from the crowd. He completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, taking his tournament tally to four goals.
Tuensang maintained defensive discipline throughout the match, preventing Zunheboto from registering any significant chances. No bookings were recorded in the fixture.
Observers described Tuensang’s performance as efficient and cohesive, particularly highlighting the synergy between their midfield and forward lines. Zunheboto, on the other hand, were left to rue their lack of attacking sharpness and inability to break through a well-organized Tuensang defense.
The tournament continues to deliver high-quality football and intense competition as teams battle for supremacy in the prestigious inter-district championship.
Day-4
August 5 fixture:
Match 10:Meluri Vs Kohima – 9 am
Match 11:Chümoukedima Vs Noklak- 11 am
Match 12: Kiphire Vs Mokokchung – 1 pm
Match 13: Mon Vs Niuland- 3 pm