Asüfü Football Academy (AFA) stormed into the finals of the 24th NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy after edging past Circle FC Chedema 2-1 in a gripping semi-final at IG Stadium here on Thursday.
Asüfü took an early lead through Bijoy Moktan, who found the back of the net in the 17th minute. However, Circle FC quickly responded, with V.S. Zimik equalizing in the 29th minute, levelling the scoreline before halftime.
Both teams fought fiercely to break the deadlock, but it was Asüfü FA’s P. Sorormi Thinsang who netted the decisive goal in the 104th minute, securing their spot in the final.
The match saw tensions run high as AFA’s Korouhanba Laishram was sent off in the 114th minute after receiving his second yellow card.
Circle FC also had their share of disciplinary actions, with Toka Achumi, Kipgen Thong, and Seilenlal Daniel all booked during the game. Despite the tight contest, Gachiiwo S. Tara of Asüfü FA was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. The award was presented by Neingutoulie Kengurüse, Councillor of Ward 2, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC). JV Kelio, the guest artiste for the day, added a cultural touch to the event with his performance.
Road to the Final: Asüfü FA has been dominant throughout the tournament, demonstrating their firepower across all stages. They began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Kohima Sports Club and continued their momentum with a 3-1 victory against Kuki Students’ Organisation Nagaland.
In the pre-quarterfinals, AFA thrashed Orami FC 6-0, and in the quarterfinals, they delivered another masterclass by defeating Michazou FC 7-0. Their semi-final victory over Circle FC now sets them up for the ultimate test. On the other hand, Sechü Zubza FC (SZFC), who secured their place in the final with a narrow 1-0 win over Asüfü Christian Institute in the semi-final, have had a slightly different path.
SZFC was given a bye in the first round, but they made a statement in their second match, defeating Magdaline Coaching Centre 4-2.
In the pre-quarterfinals, SZFC triumphed 6-1 against Jakhama Youth Organisation, and in the quarterfinals, they registered a 2-0 win over Football 4 Change Academy.
With both teams showcasing skill and resilience throughout the tournament, the final promises to be a thrilling encounter as Asüfü FA and Sechü Zubza FC vie for the coveted NSF Martyrs Memorial Trophy.
The grand finale is expected to draw a large crowd as fans eagerly anticipate a high-octane clash between two of the best teams in the tournament. The final match will be held on Saturday, October 5 at 1 p.m.