Golngai FC enter ZNNPJ Cup final
Source: The Sangai Express
Churachandpur, February 10 2023:
Golngai FC have reached the final of the 2023 Zomi Nam Ni Platinum Jubilee Cup after beating Kangpokpi based Kuki Football Academy (Junior) 5-3 via penalty shootout in the first semifinal of the meet at Lamka Public Ground in Churachandpur on Friday.
After the regulation time of the encounter failed to produce a goal, it was Golngai FC's goalkeeper who emerged as the hero of his side as he saved the first penalty kick and led his side to the victory.
The two teams were evenly poised and cautious in their approach in the first half and as a result not many openings were created.
The two teams showed more urgency after the change of ends but poor finishing forced the two teams to remain unseparated.
The scoreline remained goalless till the end of regulation time and the match was extended to a penalty shootout where Golngai FC triumphed 5-3 .
Golngai FC will now face either Saikul based Football 4 Change or Kangpokpi based Kuki Football Academy in the final of the tournament.
The ZNNPJ Cup started with much fanfare on January 10 with the Churachandpur District Sports Association classifying it as a State level tournament.
Well known State teams, Sagolband United and Kuki Sporting Association were given direct entry at the Quarter Final Level.
However, Sagolband United crumbled into the hands of Football 4 Change while Kuki Sporting Club managed to claim a semi final berth.
The final match of the ZNNPJ Cup 2023 is slated for February 15, five days ahead of the Zomi Nam Ni.