Jorethang (Sikkim), Jan 22 : Nongkseh Sports Social and Cultural Club on Thursday lifted the 11th All India Chief Minister’s Gold Cup International Football Tournament after defeating BSF (Jalandhar) 1–0 in the final at Jorethang in South Sikkim.
The Shillong-based side sealed the title through a solitary goal by Kynsaibor Lhuid in the 51st minute, capping a dominant performance in which Nongkseh controlled possession and dictated the tempo for most of the match.
Nongkseh pressed relentlessly and created several scoring opportunities, though many chances went unconverted. BSF struggled to break through the defence and managed just one shot on target, a powerful header that was expertly saved by goalkeeper Daraphun Talang to preserve the lead.
For his consistent performances through the tournament, Nongkseh’s Kynsai was named Man of the Tournament and awarded a Tata Tiago. The champions also received the prestigious trophy along with a cash prize of ₹20 lakh.
Nongkseh’s title run included a 2–1 win over Himalayan Gangtok in their opening match, followed by narrow victories against Eastern Railway and a commanding 4–0 win over NEROCA FC. They defeated Red Panda FC in the semifinals before outclassing BSF in the final.
Following their unbeaten campaign, Indian Super League side NorthEast United FC have invited Nongkseh for a pre-season friendly scheduled for February 8 at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati.
