NSF Trophy: ALT storms into semis after defeating Kuki United FC 3–1

Anal Lenruwl Tangpi (ALT) advanced to the semi-final of the ongoing NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy after securing a commanding 3–1 victory over Kuki United FC (KUFC) in the 4th quarterfinal match played at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima.
The match began with both teams showing attacking intent, but it was Kuki United who drew first blood in the 29th minute through Seivanglen Kuki (11), giving his side an early lead. ALT, however, responded with determination and equalised in first-half stoppage time (45+3 minutes) through a brilliant strike from Thumsol (7), ensuring the teams went into the break level at 1–1.
In the second half, ALT took complete control of the game. Winkle (11) put them ahead in the 60th minute with a composed finish, before Kagaly (30) extended the lead five minutes later, converting from the penalty spot after a foul inside the box. KUFC made several attempts to reduce the deficit but were unable to break through ALT’s solid defensive line.
With this 3–1 victory, ALT booked their place in the semi-final, continuing their impressive run in the tournament. Thumsol (7) of ALT was named Player of the Match for his crucial equaliser and overall performance. The award was presented by the Match Patron, assistant chief engineer CAWD, Er. Sungti Amer.
Both teams entered the match with strong performances from their earlier rounds. Kuki United FC had been in exceptional form, dominating every stage of their campaign with a 5–0 win over Medziphema Football Academy, a 5–1 victory against Damokles FC Medziphema, and a 2–0 triumph over Delhi Police, scoring a total of 12 goals while conceding only one. Their consistent goal-scoring and disciplined defense had established them as one of the top contenders for the title before being halted by ALT.
Anal Lenruwl Tangpi also entered the quarterfinals in fine form, displaying tactical discipline and clinical finishing. They secured a 1–0 win over Kirha FC, overwhelmed Jakhama Youth Organisation 6–1, and stunned five-time champions Nagaland Police with a 3–0 victory. With 10 goals scored and only one conceded before the quarterfinal, ALT’s momentum carried them confidently into the semi-finals.
ROAD TO THE SEMI-FINALS
The first semi-final match is scheduled for October 15, featuring Sechü Zubza FC and Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO) at 4:30 p.m.
Defending champions Sechü Zubza FC began their campaign from the pre-quarterfinal stage, edging past Ward-19 in a penalty shootout (3–1) after a goalless draw, and later defeating former champions Red Scars FC 2–0 in the quarterfinal.
Chedema Village Youth Organisation (CVYO), on the other hand, has been in exceptional form throughout the tournament, delivering dominant performances over Amigos FC Tesophenyu (7–0), Kidima Farmers United (2–0), United Brothers FC (7–1), Rever Gantok SC (4–0), and Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (2–1). With a total of 22 goals scored and only two conceded, CVYO enter the semi-finals as one of the most formidable sides in this year’s edition. As the tournament intensifies, fans eagerly await a thrilling clash in the semi-finals and the continuation of ALT’s impressive journey in pursuit of the prestigious NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy.