Shillong, Aug 17: Tenga United FC were crowned champions of the Rupa Football League – Independence Cup 2026 after winning a dramatic penalty shootout in the Grand Final at Gyaptong Stadium in Rupa, in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, on Saturday.
The final produced a tense and closely fought contest, with both teams showing plenty of intensity, resilience and attacking intent. Neither side was able to find the decisive goal during regulation time, forcing the title to be settled from the penalty spot.
Tenga United FC held their nerve under pressure, converting their chances to eventually secure a 5-4 victory in the shootout.
The result sparked celebrations at Gyaptong Stadium as Tenga United FC lifted the Independence Cup trophy and brought the tournament to a memorable conclusion.
The Rupa Football League – Independence Cup 2026 was organised under the theme “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Football”, with the tournament also promoting sports as a pathway towards discipline, leadership, healthy living and nation-building among young people.
The RFL-Independence Cup 2026 was inaugurated on July 26 by Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. Gen. K.T. Parnaik (Retd.).
Jointly organised by the Indian Army and the Rupa Town Club, the tournament brought together 16 men’s teams, including formations of the Indian Army under the Kameng Sector, teams from across the northeastern states and a team from neighbouring Nepal.
The tournament also featured six women’s teams, highlighting the growing participation and opportunities for women in football.
