By Tanveer Ahmed
GILGIT: The Second FCNA Inter-District Gilgit-Baltistan Football Tournament 2026 concluded at Lalak Jan Stadium on Wednesday, with Team NLI defeating Team Ghizer 1–0 in a tightly contested final to lift the championship trophy.
Organized with the support of the Pakistan Army, the tournament is among the region’s largest sporting events, designed to promote football, encourage youth participation, and strengthen inter-district cohesion across Gilgit-Baltistan. Seventeen teams representing various districts competed, showcasing disciplined play and competitive spirit. Large crowds attended the matches, filling the stadium and creating an energetic atmosphere with sustained applause and chants.
The final match was marked by high-intensity action, with both sides demonstrating strong defensive organization and swift counterattacks. A single goal proved decisive, securing NLI’s championship in a closely fought contest.
Caretaker Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan, Justice (R) Yar Muhammad, attended the closing ceremony as chief guest, alongside Commander Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) Major General Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gilani and Inspector General of Police Gilgit-Baltistan Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan. Cash prizes totaling over Rs 5 million were distributed among the top-performing teams: champions NLI received Rs 1.8 million, runners-up Ghizer Rs 1.2 million, while third- and fourth-placed teams were awarded Rs 0.4 million and Rs 0.2 million, respectively.
Speaking at the ceremony, officials highlighted the importance of sports in steering youth toward constructive activities and fostering regional unity. They reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining large-scale sporting initiatives, providing emerging athletes with greater exposure at national and international platforms.
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