Zunheboto fans clean stadium after Dr T Ao Trophy loss

MOKOKCHUNG – Supporters of the Zunheboto district football team stayed behind after their side’s semi-final defeat on Tuesday to clean the stands at Renpo Lu Stadium in Ungma village, a gesture that has drawn wide praise on social media.

Zunheboto lost the second semi-final of the 25th Dr T Ao Inter-District Football Championship, the tournament’s silver jubilee edition, to Tuensang 4-3 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time on October 27.

Photos and video from the evening show a group of fans, several wearing gloves and face masks, collecting plastic bottles, food wrappers and other litter from the terraces into black garbage bags after the final whistle.

The clip circulated widely online, with many users commending the supporters for setting an example of civic responsibility and sportsmanship, and for showing that respect for the game extends beyond the result. Also Read Nagaland Police Officer Arrested After Allegedly Threatening Delhivery Executive with Pistol Over ₹600 COD Parcel in Chümoukedima

Zunheboto’s supporters, largely from the Sümi community, had turned out in large numbers to cheer their team, creating a lively atmosphere at the venue.

How the match unfolded

Tuensang took an early lead through Sentisang, who scored in the eighth minute. Zunheboto drew level in the 58th minute through Ngukape, according to match reports in The Morung Express and Nagaland Post.

Zunheboto’s Mangholen was booked in the 49th minute and Tuensang’s Relithong in the 59th. With no further goals, the tie went to a penalty shootout, which Tuensang won 4-3.

Tuensang will face defending champions Mon in the final on October 29 at 4 pm. Mon reached the final after beating Peren 2-1 in the first semi-final on October 26.

About the tournament

The Dr T Ao Trophy is named after Dr Talimeren Ao of Changki village in Mokokchung district, who captained India’s football team at the 1948 London Olympics. This year’s edition marks the championship’s 25th anniversary.