SENAPATI: District Sports Association (DSA), in collaboration with the Senapati District Olympic Association, Manipur (SDOAM), on Monday felicitated 12-year-old football prodigy Potovei for scripting history by becoming the first footballer from the district to win two of the world’s most prestigious youth football tournaments—the Gothia Cup 2026 in Sweden and the Helsinki Cup 2026 in Finland.
The felicitation programme, held at the Astro Turf Ground in Senapati, drew sports officials, community leaders, football veterans, village authorities, youth organisations and hundreds of well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the young winger’s remarkable achievement.
A native of Laii Shirafii village from the Poumai Naga tribe in Senapati district, Potovei was hailed as the district’s “Wonder Boy” for bringing international recognition to the region through his exceptional football talent at just 12 years of age.
Addressing the gathering, Joram said Potovei had achieved what no footballer from Senapati had accomplished before, describing his success as a milestone not only for the district but also for Manipur and India.
Potovei’s football journey began at Senapati FC, where his elder brother, Wilson, now a B-License coach with Minerva Football Academy, first recognised his exceptional talent while coaching in Senapati. During a talent identification programme conducted by Minerva Football Academy, Potovei impressed the selectors and earned admission to the academy at the age of nine. He has now spent three years training at the academy on a full scholarship, having earlier also received a football scholarship at Senapati FC.
Wilson said that although Potovei was never particularly interested in academics, his passion and natural ability in football were evident from an early age.
“Football was always his dream. I knew he had something special, so I encouraged him to pursue the sport and convinced our parents to support his journey. Looking at where he is today makes every sacrifice worthwhile,” Wilson said.
Despite suffering an ankle injury before the tournament, Potovei’s determination never wavered. He was selected in the 18-member squad, played as a winger, scored seven goals during the tournament and played a crucial role as winger in helping his team secure both the Gothia Cup and Helsinki Cup titles.
Those close to the youngster described him as shy and humble off the field but said he transforms into a fearless and confident player whenever he steps onto the pitch.
Several organisations, including SDOAM, PNTM, PNTM Chelivai, Laii Village, Senapati FC, PPL, Poumai Veterans, Pouna Colony Authority Council, Zhobumai Union Senapati, Zhobumai Youth and Student Organisation, and the Senapati District Veteran Football Association, felicitated the young footballer with traditional shawls and mementoes.
The programme also featured congratulatory messages from community organisations, an address by SDOAM President Joram Koveo, a blessing by Rev. D. Wipibou, Pastor of ZBC, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Potovei’s family.
At just 12 years old, Potovei has already achieved what many footballers only dream of. His journey from the football grounds of Senapati to lifting two of the world’s biggest youth football trophies has become an inspiration for aspiring footballers across Manipur and beyond.
