Shillong, August 17, 2025: Mawkasiang were crowned champions of the Shillong Sports Association’s U-20 Fourth Division 2025 after edging Mawlynrei 3-1 on penalties in a thrilling final at the SSA Stadium, First Ground, Polo, on Saturday.

The match ended 2-2 after 80 minutes of regulation time and goalless extra time. In the decisive tiebreaker, Mawkasiang converted all three of their spot-kicks, while Mawlynrei faltered by missing all but one of theirs.

Mawkasiang’s dramatic equaliser came deep into stoppage time through Hame-dao Nongtdu (80’+1), whose free-kick ricocheted off the post and goalkeeper before crossing the line. Earlier, Mawkasiang had taken the lead in the 4th minute through Melbert Kharbangar, before Mawlynrei turned the contest around via goals from Banrap Dohling (24’) and Elvinson Kharsohnoh (51’).

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Mawkasiang held their nerve and forced extra time. Mawlynrei, who also went down to 10 men later in the game, were denied a potential penalty and their frustration eventually cost them in the shootout.

At the prize distribution ceremony, attended by dignitaries from the Shillong Sports Association (SSA) and the Meghalaya Football Association, the champions received ₹60,000 in prize money while the runners-up took home ₹30,000. Farbious Marbaniang was named Player of the Final for his two penalty saves, and Phasdonlang Hynniewta won the Top Scorer award with nine goals, including two hat-tricks for Mawphlang.

Both finalists, along with semifinalists Lummawbah and Lapalang, will be promoted to the Third Division next season. The 2025 football season, inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma in June, continues with the Shillong Premier League already underway and the Second Division set to kick off on Monday.