Goan coach Joshuah Vaz hailed Tlangnuam Futsal Club's historic AIFF Futsal Club Championship triumph as the reward for years of perseverance after guiding the Mizoram side to its maiden national title on Sunday.
Tlangnuam became the first club from Mizoram to lift the championship trophy after defeating hosts Progressive Sports Academy of Gujarat 9-5 in a high-scoring final at the SAG Indoor Stadium in Bhavnagar.
For Vaz, the victory was especially sweet after suffering disappointment in the previous four editions of the tournament.
"Firstly, I would like to thank God for this incredible victory. Despite many challenges and circumstances that were not in our favour, His grace and wisdom guided us to become the Champions of India," Vaz said.
"After the heartbreak of the previous four editions, this feeling is simply unbelievable. To finally be crowned Champions of India is a dream come true."
The Goan coach reserved special praise for his players, who produced an outstanding campaign from start to finish. Tlangnuam scored an astonishing 69 goals in five matches, defeated the defending champions 10-4 in the semifinals and capped their run with a dominant 9-5 victory over tournament favourites Progressive in the final.
"All credit goes to the boys for their outstanding and dominant performances throughout the tournament. Everyone contributed, we had the tournament's best goalkeeper, and this is a campaign we will never forget," Vaz said.
Tlangnuam led 3-2 at half-time before pulling away after the break through a devastating attacking display. Lalremtluanga, Lalsangkima and David Laltlansanga scored two goals each, while Kiran Chhetri, PC Lalremruata and K. Roluahpuia also found the net.
Vaz also thanked Tlangnuam FC, sponsor Rohit Kanitkar (Forza) and his family for their unwavering support, dedicating the historic triumph to the people of Mizoram.
"This victory is for my family and for all the people of Mizoram," he said.
Tlangnuam goalkeeper Malhar Shah was named Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, while Progressive's Lalsawmpuia claimed the Best Player award and teammate Nikhil Mali finished as the top scorer with 13 goals.
