Teams during the opening day of the North East Zone Inter-University (Men) Football Tournament at NU on November 11.
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 11 (MExN): The North East Zone Inter-University (Men) Football Tournament began on November 11 at Nagaland University’s Dr. T. Ao Football Ground in Lumami, gathering university teams from across the eight northeastern states.
The five-day tournament commenced with an impressive opening ceremony, marked by inspirational speeches, cultural performances, and high spirits.
Dr. Ashutosh Tripathi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Studies at Nagaland University, chaired the inaugural ceremony. Dr. Tripathi quoted Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho, saying, “I learned all about life with a ball at my feet,” setting a motivational tone for the event.
In his Welcome Address, the Organizing Secretary, DDS Dr. Harish Kumar Tiwari, highlighted the legacy of Dr. T. Ao, India’s first football captain after independence, and his contributions to both Indian football and Nagaland. Dr. Tiwari expressed excitement for the tournament, framing it as a celebration of unity, talent, and sportsmanship, urging players to view it as a unique opportunity for growth.
Dr. Abemo, Registrar of Nagaland University and Guest of Honour, acknowledged this as a landmark event for the university, hosting a Northeast football tournament for the first time. He emphasized the importance of sports in personal development, social connection, and fostering unity. Dr. Abemo expressed hope that the players would inspire the local community and embody progress at the university.
The Chief Guest, Prof. J.K. Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, welcomed the visiting teams and discussed the challenges of organizing a regional event in the geographically diverse Northeast. Prof. Patnaik celebrated the influence of Northeastern players in the Indian Super League and shared an anecdote about Dr. T. Ao’s decision to play barefoot, citing Dr. Ao’s words, “You play football with foot, not boot.” Prof. Patnaik encouraged players to demonstrate exemplary sportsmanship and dedication throughout the tournament.
The ceremony, attended by university officials, faculty, staff, and students, featured a cultural performance by the Nagaland University Students’ Union (Lumami) and concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Ashish Kumar, Hindi Officer at Nagaland University. The opening ceremony concluded with an oath-taking by the players, officially marking the start of the tournament.
The tournament’s first match saw Tripura University defeat Manipur University 5-4 in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw. In the second match, Guwahati University clinched a 1-0 victory over Tezpur University. Matches are being held at both the Dr. T. Ao Football Ground in Lumami and Mokokchung local ground.
According to NU’s Public Relations Officer, Peter Ki, the tournament adopts a knockout format initially, with the top four teams advancing to a league phase. The leading teams will qualify for the All India Inter-Zonal Tournament at GNA University, Punjab, with further opportunities to compete in the prestigious Khelo India University Games 2024-25.
Nineteen university teams registered for the event, representing all eight northeastern states. Organized under the auspices of the Association of Indian Universities, the tournament promises a dynamic display of talent, spirit, and regional pride in the days ahead.
