Sporting Club of Manipur lifted the Nike Manchester United Premier Cup India 2013 after defeating Mumbai FC 5-4 via sudden death of the tiebreaker in the finals played at Duler Stadium, Mapusa, today.
Manipur will now represent India at the South East Asia regional finals to be held in Malaysia this June. This U-15 tournament is now in its 20th year globally and 8th in India.
Arif Shaikh of Mumbai FC received the highest goal scorer award while Manipur keeper Romario Singh bagged the best player of the tournament title.
The youngsters had the opportunity to play an exhibition match with two stalwarts of Indian football – Bhaichung Bhutia and Sunil Chhetri who later witnessed the finals along with Indian National team coach Wim Koevermans.
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Chhetri lauded this initiative by Nike. “This is a huge platform for these youngsters. You can’t ask for anything bigger. It’s a fantastic initiative by Nike. I hope Manipur do well in Malayasia,” the Churchill striker remarked as Bhutia adds, “I am honored to be associated with this tournament. Many players who have played in this tournament have gone on to play for the country. It’s a great platform and youngsters should utilize it to their best.”
National team coach Koevermans was also all praise and also praised the youngsters for the efforts put in. “It was a tough tournament and we can see that in the boys. Hope they go on to do well in Malaysia as they are the future of Indian football,” the Dutchman stated.
Manipur coach L. Debachandra Singh was elated with the triumph and assured of a good fight in Malaysia. “It was good winning this tournament. We did not have much time to prepare for this tournament so I think our best is yet to come. We will give our best in Malayasia,” the overjoyed coach promised.
Sporting Club of Manipur crowned MUPC Champs
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