The Dr. T. Ao Inter-District Football Trophy 2025 saw an action-packed series of matches on Wednesday, as Peren, Zunheboto, Wokha and Dimapur registered crucial wins across four highly competitive fixtures at IG Stadium, here.
Peren come from behind to beat Tseminyu 2-1
In Match 14, Peren overcame a first-half deficit to edge past Tseminyu 2–1 in a dramatic encounter. Tseminyu drew first blood in the 22nd minute through Japhet Kath, who finished clinically after a dominant start by his side.
However, Peren turned the tide in the second half following the introduction of substitute Nrakhak, who netted twice in quick succession. His equalizer in the 64th minute caught Tseminyu’s defense off guard, and he doubled the lead just six minutes later, securing a vital brace and sealing the win for Peren.
Despite Tseminyu’s pressing efforts in the final stages, Peren’s defense stood firm to close out the match.
Zunheboto outclass Shamator 3-0
Zunheboto cruised to a comprehensive 3–0 victory over Shamator in Match 15, controlling the game from start to finish. The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Pulovi Kiho capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire home the opener.
Vinato Achumi extended the lead in the 38th minute with a low strike into the corner, while Tokibe rounded off the scoring in the 60th minute with a well-timed header from a set-piece.
Zunheboto maintained high intensity throughout the match and allowed Shamator few chances to respond, showcasing sharp finishing and defensive solidity.
Wokha edge past Phek 3-2
Match 16 witnessed a thrilling contest as Wokha edged out Phek 3–2 in a game marked by attacking flair and individual brilliance. Wokha took an early lead through Yisanbemo in the 19th minute, who finished off a well-orchestrated move.
Wokha’s dominance continued into the second half, with Tsentselong doubling the lead in the 46th minute, followed by a third goal from Renjamo in the 57th minute.
Phek mounted a late resurgence with substitute Veporayi scoring twice in the 65th and the 70+1st minutes but Wokha held on for a crucial win. Despite Phek’s late push, Wokha’s early aggression and mental composure proved decisive.
Dimapur blank Longleng 3-0
Dimapur delivered a commanding 3–0 win over Longleng in Match 17, underlining their credentials as one of the top contenders in the tournament. The breakthrough came in the 30th minute, when Mangkholen sliced through Longleng’s backline to open the scoring with a composed finish.
Ruikuwe added the second in first-half stoppage time (35+1’) to put Dimapur firmly in control. The third and final goal was scored by Zarenthung in the 48th minute, effectively putting the result beyond doubt.
Dimapur’s high-pressing game and technical superiority left Longleng with little time or space, as the latter struggled to gain any foothold throughout the match.
With these results, the tournament’s group stage heats up further, as districts battle for knockout qualification in what is turning out to be a fiercely contested edition of the Dr. T Ao Trophy.
Thursday’s matches
Shamator Vs Tuensang – 9 a.m.
Meluri Vs Tseminyu – 11 a.m.
Zunheboto Vs Niuland – 1 p.m.