The 25th Anniversary Edition of the NSF Martyrs’ Memorial Trophy continued to thrill football fans at the IG Stadium, Kohima, as Mao Students’ Union (MSU) and Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) advanced to the quarter-finals after registering impressive victories in their respective pre-quarterfinal matches.
In the 5th pre-quarterfinal match, Mao Students’ Union edged past New Market FC with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win. The match, which saw an early lead by New Market, kept spectators on edge until the final whistle.
New Market’s Letkokia Kuki (20) opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by Haoneo Kuki (6) who doubled the lead in the 38th minute. However, MSU narrowed the deficit when Lohrü Kaisü (23) found the net in first-half stoppage time (45+3’).
The second half saw a rejuvenated MSU side press forward with determination, as Lohrü struck again in the 87th minute to equalise. Just when the game seemed headed for extra time, W. John (7) sealed a last-minute winner in the 90th minute, completing a stunning turnaround for Mao Students’ Union.
W. John (7) of MSU was adjudged the Man of the Match for his decisive performance and was presented the award by the match patron, Neikhozo Suokhrie, chairman, Kohima Municipal Council.
In the 6th pre-quarterfinal match, Nagaland United Sports Club (NUSC) delivered a dominant display, crushing Dimapur Chaos 7-0 to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
NUSC opened their goal fest early, with Yhoto Lohe (7) netting the first in the 8th minute. The scoring spree continued as Arap Konyak (15) added another in the 15th minute, followed by Sanathoi Meitei (12) in the 17th. The second half saw no let-up, with Joel Haokip (25) extending the lead in the 51st minute, before Jenish Singh (6), Manton (11), and Ghuqhe Chishi (20) sealed the emphatic win with goals in the 63rd, 75th, and 89th minutes respectively.
Joel Haokip (25) of NUSC, who showcased exceptional control and finishing, was named the Man of the Match and received the award from the match patron, Er. Wabanginba M, Executive Engineer, South Division, PWD, Government of Nagaland.
Both Mao Students’ Union and Nagaland United Sports Club will now head into the quarter-finals with strong momentum as the tournament enters its decisive stages.
Thursday’s Matches
Delhi Police Vs Kuki United FC at 12 p.m.
Nagaland Police Vs Anal Lenruwl Tangpi at 2 p.m.
NSF Trophy: Mao SU, NUSC cruise into quarter-finals
CorrespondentKOHIMA, OCT 8 (NPN)