Williamnagar, July 5: Simsanggre United were crowned champions of the 8th Edition of the MLA Cup 2026 after defeating Bisi Bima Football Club 1-0 in a dramatic final at the Williamnagar District Sports Association (WDSA) Stadium on Saturday.

The tournament, which commenced on May 28, featured 45 teams from across East Garo Hills, making it one of the region’s largest and most competitive football tournaments.

The grand finale was attended by Cabinet Minister and Williamnagar MLA Marcuise N. Marak, the principal sponsor of the tournament, as the Chief Guest. Superintendent of Police, East Garo Hills, Pawar Swapnil Vasaant, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, along with several other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, Marak congratulated the organisers for successfully hosting the tournament and said competitions like the MLA Cup provide young footballers with an important platform to showcase their talent while inspiring them to pursue the sport with greater dedication.

Highlighting the Meghalaya Government’s commitment to sports development under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Marak spoke about major infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening football in the state. He informed the gathering that the Government is constructing the ₹732-crore Mawkhanu Football Stadium in New Shillong, which will have a seating capacity of 40,000 and is expected to be completed in 2028. Once completed, it will be India’s largest football-specific stadium.

He also highlighted the ongoing upgradation of the P.A. Sangma Sports Complex in Tura, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to creating world-class sporting infrastructure and nurturing young sporting talent across Meghalaya.

The championship match remained evenly contested throughout the regulation 90 minutes, with both Simsanggre United and Bisi Bima Football Club producing disciplined defensive displays and creating several opportunities without finding the breakthrough.

With the contest seemingly headed for a goalless draw, Simsanggre United struck in dramatic fashion during stoppage time. Two minutes into the four minutes of added time, Walchang delivered a dangerous free-kick into the penalty area, where Akim Sangma calmly guided the ball into the net to hand his side a memorable 1-0 victory and the championship title.

For their triumph, Simsanggre United received the championship trophy along with a cash prize of ₹1 lakh, while runners-up Bisi Bima Football Club were awarded the runners-up trophy and a cash prize of ₹50,000.

The Williamnagar District Sports Association (WDSA) expressed its gratitude to Marcuise N. Marak for his continued support and vision in promoting football and creating opportunities for young players across the region.

The Association also thanked all participating teams, match officials, volunteers, sponsors, supporters and football enthusiasts for their contributions towards the successful conduct of the 8th Edition of the MLA Cup 2026.

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