MOKOKCHUNG: Mon retained the Dr T Ao Trophy 2026 after defeating Tuensang 4–2 in a penalty shootout in the final of the 25th Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Championship at Renpo Lu Sports Complex, Ungma, Mokokchung, on October 29.
The Silver Jubilee edition final ended 1–1 after regulation time, with Mon holding their nerve in the penalty shootout to secure their second consecutive championship title.
Mon took an early lead in the 10th minute through an own goal credited to Tuensang’s Namang. The defending champions maintained their advantage for much of the match as Tuensang pressed for an equaliser.
Tuensang eventually drew level in the 85th minute through S. Ayenmongba, setting up a tense finish to the closely contested final. Neither side managed to score again before the final whistle, forcing the championship decider into a penalty shootout.
Mon converted four penalties against Tuensang’s two to emerge victorious and successfully defend their title.
The victory capped Mon’s impressive campaign in the 25th edition of the prestigious inter-district football championship, organised to celebrate the legacy of Dr Talimeren Ao, a pioneering figure in Indian football who captained the national team at the 1948 London Olympics.
Individual Awards
The tournament’s individual honours recognised outstanding performances across the participating district teams. Imnatoshi of Mokokchung won the Golden Boot, while Mon’s Eshong Konyak received the Golden Ball award.
Imtikumzuk of Tuensang was named the Golden Glove winner, Haokhohen of Peren received the Best Defender award, and Mughahuto of Zunheboto was named Best Midfielder.
The Silver Jubilee edition brought together district teams from across Nagaland, highlighting the state’s footballing talent and the continuing importance of the Dr T Ao Trophy in promoting football, sportsmanship and unity among the Naga people.