The Nagaland Blind Football Team (Men) has made their mark at the 5th Men’s & 2nd Women’s Edition of the IBFF Northeast Zonal Blind Football Tournament. The event, which took place in Aizawl, Mizoram from 3-6 April 2024, saw the Nagaland team secure an impressive 1st runners-up position.
The final match was a nail-biting affair, with Nagaland facing off against a formidable Meghalaya side. Despite their valiant efforts, the Nagaland team suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat. However, their exceptional performance throughout the tournament did not go unnoticed, and their hard work and dedication to the sport shone through.
Also Read: Small Village, Big Dreams: Tsuchoi Breaks Barriers, Becomes Champion
Under the guidance of head coach Diethozo Yoho, assistant coach and goal guide Kezhaleto Zecho, and goalkeeper/escort Rongsenyanger, the Nagaland team displayed a level of skill and teamwork that left spectators in awe. The trio’s expertise and leadership were key factors in the team’s success.
Two Nagaland players, in particular, stood out from the rest. Rongsenyanger’s outstanding performance between the posts earned him the title of best goalkeeper in the men’s category, while Mighito Yeptho’s exceptional skills on the field saw him named the emerging player in the men’s category. These individual accolades highlight the depth of talent within the Nagaland team.
Also Read: Kirsten O’Brien pays emotional tribute to late co-star Mark Speight
The 1st runners-up finish has opened doors for the Nagaland team, securing them a spot in the prestigious IBFF National Blind Football Tournament. The national event, set to take place in Pune, Maharashtra in June 2024, will provide the team with a platform to showcase their abilities to a wider audience and compete against the best blind football teams from across the country.
Coaches Diethozo Yoho and Kezhaleto Zecho expressed their immense pride in the team’s achievements and the growing recognition of blind football as an inclusive sport. They emphasised the team’s unwavering determination to make their state proud and create a lasting impact as they embark on the next chapter of their journey.
Also Read: BJP Skips Eastern Nagaland in Foundation Day, Draws Criticism
The success of the Nagaland Blind Football Team at the IBFF Northeast Zonal Blind Football Tournament is a shining example of the power of perseverance and the importance of providing equal opportunities in sports. The team’s achievements not only bring glory to their state but also contribute to the growth and development of blind football in the region.
As the Nagaland team gears up for the national tournament, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their supporters. Their journey is a powerful reflection of the indomitable human spirit and the ability to overcome challenges in the pursuit of one’s passions.
Also Read: Nagaland Unveils Ambitious Tourism Policy 2024, Focusing on Sustainable Development
The people of Nagaland and football enthusiasts across the nation will be eagerly following the team’s progress, cheering them on every step of the way. With their sights set on making a mark at the national level, the Nagaland Blind Football Team is ready to inspire and captivate audiences with their remarkable skills and unwavering determination.