Ukhrul, Feb 19: Hope FC is the new champion of the 5th edition of Maj Bob Khathing Ralengnao Baby League 2025. Hope FC defeated United FC by a score margin of 3-1. A hattrick by Maya Raleng seals the notable achievement for Hope FC. He netted the goal at 20, 35 and 40 minutes. Somareo Horam scored the lone goal for United FC at 26 minutes. The final match was attended by Col. Manish Kadyian, Commandant of 18 Assam Rifles, and Captain Abhishek Grewal.
As a curtain raiser to commemorate the 113th birth anniversary of the legend Maj Bob Khathing Ralengnao, the much-anticipated 5th edition of Baby League officially kickstarted on 15 February at the Thahao Ground, Ukhrul.
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The introduction of Baby League goes back to 2018 when Tenno Pheirei had put up a proposal to the 27 Assam Rifles for organising the “Baby League Football Tournament” to nurture young talents and to provide access to football in the children’s locality and to make Maj Bob Khathing a household name. The proposal was readily accepted by the Assam Rifles, and the First edition of Maj Bob Khathing Ralengnao Baby League was launched and introduced in Ukhrul District at Thahao Ground on 14 February 2019, under the initiative of Assan Rifles headed by Major General Mohit Seth, SM, VSM, MGGS, Eastern Command, Kolkata (the then DIG of Somsai) and Col Rajesh Dogra (the then Commandant of 27 Assam Rifles, Somsai), presently posted at HQ 33 Corps, Sukna, Darjeeling, West Bengal.
Young footballers showcasing their skills, the tournament has inspired and groomed the young players while honoring the legacy of Maj Bob Khathing Ralengnao, a son of the soil who is a distinguished figure in history.
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With its introduction, the Baby League has played a significant step in nurturing young football talents in the region. The Baby League is becoming an exciting platform for young budding athletes, fostering both competition and camaraderie in the spirit of the beautiful game.