DIMAPUR, NOV 8 (NPN): Strikers Club and Nizam FC secured their places in the final of the 2nd edition ATL Cup (Above 35) after emerging victorious in their respective semi-final encounters at the Chumukedima local ground on Saturday.
In the opening semi-final, Strikers Club delivered a dominant performance to thrash Trinity Sporting 5-0 and book their place in the title clash.
Himato (Jersey No. 10) opened the scoring as early as the third minute, finishing off an assist from Kheki to give Strikers Club the perfect start. Kheki (Jersey No. 11) then took centre stage with a remarkable hat-trick, finding the net in the 26th, 42nd and 52nd minutes. Aben (Jersey No. 37) added another goal in the 44th minute to complete the rout.
Despite Abeto (Jersey No. 13) receiving a yellow card, Strikers Club remained in complete control throughout the match. Kheki was named Kingsports Man of the Match for his outstanding three-goal performance.
The second semi-final provided a dramatic contrast as Nizam FC edged past Super Strikers 5-4 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 2-2 in regulation time.
Nizam FC took command in the first half through goals from C. Temsu (Jersey No. 26) in the 12th minute and Ketho (Jersey No. 11) in the 21st minute.
However, Super Strikers mounted a spirited comeback when Aphrezo (Jersey No. 11) reduced the deficit in the 23rd minute before Ketholezo (Jersey No. 12) struck deep into stoppage time at 60+1 minutes to level the scores and force penalties.
Nizam FC, despite yellow cards shown to C. Temsu and Wati (Jersey No. 23), held their nerve in the shootout to secure a 5-4 victory and a place in the final.
Ketho was adjudged Kingsports Man of the Match for his influential display and crucial first-half goal.
With the semi-finals concluded, the stage is now set for a highly anticipated final as Strikers Club and Nizam FC will battle for the championship title in the 2nd Edition ATL Cup (Above 35).
Monday, November 9, 2026