MDFA TROPHY 2025

Chargers FC and Team Gilgal Triumph on Day 3;

Defending Champions KSUM knocked out

Morung Express News
Mokokchung | October 16 

The third day of the 27th Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) Trophy 2025 produced high drama at the Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung, as Chargers FC earned a confident 2–0 win over Sangpang Riju, while Team Gilgal stunned defending champions Konyak Students’ Union Mokokchung (KSUM) with a commanding 3–1 victory to send them out of the tournament.

Chargers FC looked sharp from the opening whistle, asserting dominance early as Longkhai put his team ahead in the 7th minute with a clinical finish. The Chargers, featuring nine players from the Mokokchung team that represented the district at the Dr. T. Ao Trophy, controlled possession and created several opportunities but lacked the final touch to extend their lead in the first half.

Sangpang Riju, despite moments of promise, failed to capitalize on their few chances. Their captain, Jungshiwati, came close just before halftime, narrowly missing what could have been an equalizer as the first half ended 1–0 in favor of Chargers.

In the second half, Chargers introduced four substitutes, signaling a tactical shift that paid off. They maintained relentless pressure, with two close attempts — one striking the woodwork. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Sangpang’s centre-back Aojungba conceded a free kick on the edge of the penalty arc. Longkhai, already on the scoresheet, stepped up again and rolled in a low strike to secure his brace and seal the victory.

With limited time remaining, the youthful Sangpang side could not muster a comeback, handing Chargers FC a deserved 2–0 win in their first outing of the tournament.

In the second match of the day, Team Gilgal, considered one of the tournament favorites, produced a clinical performance to eliminate defending champions KSUM with a 3–1 win.

The contest began with high intensity as both sides pushed for control, but the deadlock was broken in the 7th minute after a handball inside the KSUM box led to a penalty. Kakhevi Assumi calmly converted from the spot to give Gilgal the early lead.

KSUM responded aggressively, hitting the woodwork twice in quick succession, but failed to equalize. Gilgal, whose lineup features several players from the Nagaland Super League, doubled their advantage in the 29th minute through Sentilong, who slipped past the keeper with composure.

Gilgal continued to dictate play with superior rhythm and coordination. Their dominance paid off again in the 42nd minute, when forward J. Dhale found the net, extending the lead to 3–0.

KSUM finally pulled one back in the 45th minute through Leangin, sparking brief hope for a comeback. However, their efforts faded as Gilgal’s disciplined defense held firm until the final whistle. The 3–1 result ended KSUM’s campaign early, marking their second consecutive defeat and confirming their exit from the 27th MDFA Trophy 2025.