Imphal: Three footballers from Manipur's Kangpokpi district reached the top of the podium at the 2026 Gothia Cup in Sweden and the Helsinki Cup in Finland. Thangsanglen Kipgen, Lalvanghao Haokip, and Seiminsang Khongsai played for Minerva Football Academy. Now they want gold for India. They gathered at the Kangpokpi Christian Church for a thanksgiving service hosted by the Board of Christian Education. Church leaders and community members watched as the trio reaffirmed their national commitment.
The players refused to consider foreign club offers. "No. We want to play for India," the athletes said in unison. They are looking past their youth success. Their primary goal remains the senior national team and a berth in the FIFA World Cup. To get there, they need help. The trio asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to pour more money into the sport. "Please help Indian football grow stronger so that India can one day play in the FIFA World Cup," they stated.
Mentors shaped their path. Thangsanglen Kipgen models his game after Neymar Junior, while Lalvanghao Haokip and Seiminsang Khongsai look to Lionel Messi. Families credited academy coach Ranjit Bajaj for providing the international exposure necessary to compete at this level. Actress Sana Khongsai called on the government to back these development efforts. The ceremony ended with prayers for the group as they push for a spot on the world stage.
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