As October wrapped the Kohima ridges in its familiar veil of mist, a feeling of excitement began tori plea cross Nagaland. It marked the arrival of a season far beyond football a time of remembrance, unity and youthful aspiration. The 9th Capt. N. Kengurüse, MVC (Posthumous) Memorial Football Tournament, held from 22 October to 6 November 2025, was not merely the state’s biggest football event. It was a tribute to courage, identity and the enduring spirit of community.

Preparations began early, with fixtures announced on 10ctober at Chieswema. The participationof20competitiveteams,aprize pool of ₹6.5 lakh and matches scheduled twice a day ignited passion across towns and villages. Yet, beyond the excitement, a deeper message carried through every conversation: “Engaging youth in sports helps steer them away from social evils like drugs and alcohol.”
Leaders, coaches and parents echoed this belief, emphasizing that a club-centric approach builds camaraderie and opens alternative employment avenues for rural youth.
In a region rich with talent but limited opportunities, sports became a powerful pathway toward a better future. The opening ceremony on 22 October, held under a soft autumn sky at the Indira Gandh Stadium, set the tone.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Senior Assam Rifles officials, representatives of the Nagaland Football Association and the family of Captain Neikezhakuo Kengurüse graced the occasion.
A short film on the young officer-who scaled a frozen cliff bare foot during the Kargil War to save his men-brought the stadium to a standstill. Even the hills seemed to pause in respect.
Throughout the tournament, the stadium transformed in to living canvas of colors and stories. Children draped in team colors, elders narrating tales of Capt. Kengurüse and families sharing snacks between matches painted a heartwarming picture.
Football in the Northeast has long been a magnet for talent and Nagaland once again proved that passion combined with natural athleticism is a powerful recipe for success.
The final match on 6 November was both intense and emotional. Under the bright stadium lights, the finalists battled fiercely for the memorial trophy as the crowd roared in unison. The champions victory sparked joy across the arena ,but the most touching moment came when the supporters turned toward Capt. Kengurüse’s family expresses their gratitude.
This ninth edition reaffirmed a timeless truth: In Nagaland, football is more than a sport. It is therapy, opportunity ,heritage and above all a living monument to aero whose spirit continues to echo through every cheer rising into the Kohima night.