“MLA Cup Inter Branch YMA Football Tournament, 2025” Concludes in Hnahthial District

Hnahthial : The “MLA Cup Inter Branch YMA Football Tournament, 2025” concluded today at the HDFA Turf Ground, with Minister of State Pu Lalnghinghlova Hmar attending as the chief guest and presiding over the closing ceremony. Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Speaker Pu Lalfamkima, Adviser to the Chief Minister Pu H. Ginzalala, Dr. Lorraine Lalpekliana Chinzah, and MLAs Pu Jeje Lalpekhlua and Pu T. Lalhlimpuia.

The Minister of State announced that a new hockey ground and a boxing hall will be constructed in Hnahthial. The Deputy Speaker handed over five footballs and ₹10,000 to the Hnahthial District Football Association (HDFA).

In his speech, the chief guest expressed appreciation for the well-attended and enthusiastic football tournament held in the district, emphasizing that such events reflect strong community participation. He noted that India aims to host the Olympics in 2036, and thus, sports like hockey are gaining prominence as part of national preparation. The proposed hockey ground in Hnahthial will be part of this initiative. He mentioned that land for the project has already been identified, with a sanctioned budget of ₹9.88 crores.

In addition, a boxing ring hall is also set to be constructed next to the HDFA turf ground using MLA Fund, to further support sports development in the region. The Minister encouraged the people of Hnahthial to strive not only in sports but also in education and overall progress.

MLA Pu Jeje Lalpekhlua in his remarks appreciated that despite many challenges, the tournament reached its final match. He highlighted the unifying power of sports and thanked all organizers and volunteers who contributed. He also encouraged the people of Hnahthial to continue striving for excellence in all areas.

Before the final match, an Exhibition Match was played between teams led by Minister Pu Lalnghinghlova Hmar and MLA Pu Jeje Lalpekhlua.

The final match of the tournament was played between Cherhlun Branch YMA and Electric Veng Branch YMA, where Cherhlun emerged as champions with a 3-2 victory.

Award Winners:

• Man of the Match: Aaron Vanlalrinchhana (Cherhlun Branch YMA)
• Top Scorer: Lalrintluanga (Electric Branch YMA) – 8 goals
• Best Goalkeeper: Robin Chawngthanzuala (Cherhlun Branch YMA)
• Best Player: Lalthankhuma (Cherhlun Branch YMA)
• Semi-Finalists: Peniel and Chanmari Branch YMA
• Runner-Up: Electric Branch YMA
• Champion: Cherhlun Branch YMA
• Best Fans: Peniel Branch YMA
• Fair Play Award: Thingsai Branch YMA

The closing ceremony was presided over by Pu Hmingthanzuala, President of YMA. The champion team received a trophy, a Bawngchal (traditional sword), and ₹70,000. The runner-up team received ₹40,000 and medals, while the semi-finalists were awarded ₹10,000 each. Individual award winners each received a trophy and ₹1,000 cash prize.