The much awaited 23rd edition of the NSF Martyr’s Memorial Trophy, to be hosted by Angami Students’ Union (ASU) will begin on Monday with a total of 34 teams including 2 from Manipur to vie for the coveted title.
The month-long trophy to be played under the theme, “Goal For Peace” at IG Stadium, Kohima and will culminate on October 14. In this edition, the winner will walk away with a cash prize of Rs. 2.5 lakh with the running trophy.
While the first runners-up will receive a cash prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh, the two losing semi-finalists will each receive Rs. 35,000 and the four-losing quarter-finalists would each receive Rs. 20,000.
Player of the tournament will be awarded a brand new scooty while individual prizes including best goalkeeper, midfielder, defender and highest scorer will each receive Rs. 10,000.
Ticket prizes will be Rs. 50 for day matches while Rs. 100 will be charged for night matches starting from the quarter-finals.
The inaugural ceremony will take place on the September 18 at 4 pm, with advisor for Youth Resources & Sports, S Keoshu Yimkhiung, as the inaugural guest. The tournament is an annual event held in honor of Late Kekuojalie Sachú and Late Vikhozo Yhoshü.
The first match of the edition will be played between the defending champion New Market and 14 FC.
As an acknowledgement to football lovers for the unwavering support over the years, the entry to witness the first match will be free.
The organizing committee and the Angami Students’ Union have invited all football lovers and well-wishers to come and witness the matches of this edition.