Football tournament held to unite Manipur tribes

Senapati (Manipur), June 21: Hundreds of people from Kangpopki village gathered at Thomas Ground here to witness the final match between the Saikul Club and Kwu Club.

Both teams included players from Kuki and Naga tribes who played hard to win the title.

Ten teams with players from Naga, Kuki, Meitei and other communities participated in the tournament that was jointly organized by Assam Rifles and Sadar Hills District Sports Association.

The organizers aimed to bring together players and spectators from different communities and tribes under one banner, and they were successful to a large extent.

“It’s a friendly match. Different communities like the Naga, the Kuki and the police team participated in it and I hope friendship and integration will be promoted through this,” Binoy Poonen, Major General, Assam Rifles, said.he tournament promoted local football talent and the final match ended with Saikul club beating Kwu club 2-0 and lifting the trophy.

Players thanked the organizers for giving them a platform to showcase their skills.

Haopu Haokip, a participating player, said, “We are very grateful to the Assam Rifles for organizing such match. I feel very good to participate here and I think such friendly football matches should be organized so that many youngsters will come forward and participate.”

The government and the security forces are trying to bring people closer through such initiatives in the region. (ANI)