Kangpokpi Christian Church fetes young football prodigies
Source: The Sangai Express

Kangpokpi, August 03 2026: In an emotional celebration where faith met football and patriotism echoed louder than applause, the Kangpokpi Christian Church (KCC) on Sunday accorded a grand felicitation to Kangpokpi's three young football prodigies who recently scripted Indian football history by leading Minerva Football Academy to an unprecedented double triumph at the Gothia Cup 2026 in Sweden and the Helsinki Cup 2026 in Finland.

Lead by the Board of Christian Education, the special thanksgiving and felicitation service witnessed the participation of church leaders, parents, well-wishers, youth, football enthusiasts and members of the community, who gathered to celebrate three sons of the soil whose remarkable journey from conflict-scarred Manipur to international glory has inspired an entire generation.

Kangpokpi Christian Church fetes young football prodigies

The congregation honoured Thangsanglen Kipgen, popularly hailed as India's "Neymar Junior," Lalvanghao Haokip, and Seiminsang Khongsai, recognising not merely their sporting achievements but their unwavering commitment to carrying the Indian Tricolour with pride on the global stage.

The programme featured presentations by various church departments, soul-stirring praise and worship led by the Church Worship Team, motivational messages, thanksgiving prayers and special blessing services dedicated to the three footballers as they prepare for even greater challenges ahead.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, the trio expressed heartfelt gratitude to the church, the community and every supporter who stood beside them throughout their journey.

"We are deeply thankful to our church, our families and everyone who believed in us.

This overwhelming love and encouragement motivates us to work even harder and bring more laurels to our country," they said.

When asked about their biggest dream, the young footballers answered without hesitation.

"Our ultimate dream is to wear the Indian Senior National Team jersey and one day represent India at the FIFA World Cup" .

Asked whether they would consider accepting offers from foreign clubs if opportunities arose, the trio gave a unanimous and unequivocal response.

"No...We want to play for India" .

Their answer drew thunderous applause from those present, reflecting a deep sense of patriotism that resonated throughout the gathering.

Thangsanglen Kipgen, whose extraordinary performances at the Gothia and Helsinki Cups earned him the title "India's Neymar Junior," said Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr and his family have been his greatest sources of inspiration.

His teammates, Lalvanghao Haokip and Seiminsang Khongsai, said they grew up idolising Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, whose dedication and humility continue to inspire their own footballing journeys.

The three footballers also used the occasion to send a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging greater investment in Indian football.

"Please help Indian football grow stronger so that India can one day play in the FIFA World Cup," they appealed.

Their message reflected the aspirations of millions of young footballers across the country who dream of seeing India compete on football's biggest stage.

On behalf of the players, one of their parents expressed profound gratitude to Minerva Football Academy founder and coach Ranjit Bajaj, crediting him for providing young Indian footballers with world-class exposure and opportunities to compete internationally.

"He believed in these boys, nurtured their talent and gave them the platform to showcase their abilities before the world.

We will always remain grateful," a parent said.

Adding her voice to the occasion, elder sister of Seiminsang Khongsai, described Ranjit Bajaj as the architect behind the team's historic success.

She said the Gothia Cup and Helsinki Cup victories would not have been possible without his vision, commitment and relentless efforts in developing young football talent.

Appealing to the Government of India, she urged authorities to extend greater institutional support to Bajaj so that many more Indian youngsters can achieve similar success and bring greater international glory to the nation.

The thanksgiving service concluded with special prayers for the trio, as church leaders blessed them to remain humble in victory, steadfast in faith and committed to their dream of one day wearing the Indian jersey at the FIFA World Cup.