The 31st Gyalyum Chenmo Memorial Gold Cup football tournament concluded with a memorable victory for Doeguling Youth Sports Association, popularly known as DYSA Mundgod, at Dhondenling Tibetan Settlement in Kollegal, South India. In a closely contested final, DYSA defeated Lhasa FC 1–0 after extra time to lift the prestigious GCM Gold Cup once again.
The final match was played on 16 April 2026 and brought together two determined sides. Both DYSA Mundgod and Lhasa FC showed discipline, stamina and strong defensive organisation throughout the regulation time. Despite several attempts from both teams, the match remained goalless after 90 minutes, forcing the game into extra time.
The decisive moment came during extra time when Karma Sherab of DYSA Mundgod scored the winning goal. His strike broke the deadlock and gave DYSA a narrow but historic 1–0 victory over Lhasa FC. With this win, DYSA secured the 31st GCMGC title and added another proud chapter to its football legacy.
This victory was especially significant for DYSA Mundgod. The team has now won the GCM Gold Cup seven times, with previous titles in 2009, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2024, 2025 and 2026. Their latest triumph also marks a hat-trick of consecutive titles, making DYSA one of the most dominant teams in the history of the tournament.
The 31st edition of the GCMGC was organised by the Tibetan National Sports Association and hosted at Dhondenling Tibetan Settlement. A total of 12 Tibetan football teams participated in the tournament, representing different Tibetan settlements across India. The competition brought together players, supporters and football lovers in a strong display of community spirit and sporting excellence.
The participating teams included Dhondupling FC, Dekyiling Sports Club, Dhondenling FC, Choepheling FC, Lhasa FC, TDL Bylakuppe, Hunsur Rabgyaling FC, Samyeling FC, Shawa FC, Phuntsoling United FC, Gulladhalla Youth Association and DYSA Mundgod.
The GCM Gold Cup remains one of the most respected football tournaments in the Tibetan community. Established in memory of Gyalyum Chenmo Dickyi Tsering, the late mother of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the tournament carries both sporting and emotional significance. Over the years, it has grown into a major platform for Tibetan youth to showcase talent, discipline and teamwork.
The 31st GCMGC at Dhondenling Tibetan Settlement once again highlighted the importance of sports in strengthening unity among Tibetan communities. Beyond the result, the tournament celebrated dedication, friendship and the collective passion for football.
DYSA Mundgod’s victory stands as a testament to consistency, teamwork and competitive spirit. Their achievement at the 31st GCMGC will be remembered not only as another title win, but as a historic moment in Tibetan football.
