Golngai FC Wins 19th SK Memorial Tourney, Beats Two-Time Champions Symropia FC in Final

The 19th Seikam Memorial Open Football Tournament 2026 that started on 10th October at K. Mongjang Playground, Churachandpur, came to a close this afternoon as Golngai FC emerged champions for the first time after a resounding 4-1 win against two-time champions SYMROPIA FC in front of a packed crowd. 

The match was anticipated to be a fiery and tense one and it did so until the 33rd minute before SYMROPIA FC's defensive blunder gifted Gongai FC the first goal as Daniel Mate slotted home the opener into an empty net. SYMROPIA FC had a better start as they launched a series of attack early on but with the progress of the match, Golngai FC began to settle. SYMROPIA FC goalkeeper Ginsawmlian produced a point-blank save to keep out a Robinson Khongsai's powerful strike after a clever William Neihsial's flick while Golngai FC  giant defender Daniel Mate rattled the crossbar with a glancing header before teammate Haoneo Kipgen had another header going inches wide and the first-half ended 1-0 in favour of Golngai FC._

Many believed SYMROPIA FC would come back stronger in the second-half but such hopes faltered as Golngai FC extended lead just 3 minutes into the restart when Haoneo Kipgen scored a highly contentious goal to make it 2-0. When SYMROPIA FC revamped their attack and pushed high to get back into the game, it was Golngai FC who went further ahead as their counter-attack resulted in SYMROPIA FC's defender Paumuan Khongsai putting the ball into his own net in the 74th minute. And, although Peter Khumrolian gave a lifeline for SYMROPIA FC in the 76th minute, it turned out to be a consolation goal as Haokholen restored his side's 3-goal cushion with a brilliant volley and the match ended 4-1 that handed Golngai FC their first title of the Seikam Memorial Open Football Tournament. 

The tournament was participated by 24 teams that showcased many strong teams competing for the title but it was Golngai FC who had the last laugh as their highly expensive squad succeeded on their mission.

Prizes and Honours

Champions (₹1.5 Lakh) : Golngai FC

Runners-Up (₹1 Lakh): SYMROPIA FC

Best Player : William Neihsial (Golngai FC) 

Top-Scorer (7 goals) : Haoneo Kipgen (Golngai FC) 

Best Goalkeeper : Ngamsanglena Haokip (Golngai FC) 

Best Young Player : Lalmalsawm Gangte (PLL Academy)