When Mizoram’s soccer team pummelled Indian Railways 3-0 to win its maiden Santosh Trophy title, coach Vanlalthlanga and manager Lalbiakzuala couldn’t help but beam with pride. Football fans hailed Mizoram’s stunning win as a sunshine moment in Indian football. Few, however, knew about these two gentlemen and the heroic personal battles they had to fight to be present on the field — victories no less fantastic than the state’s triumph on the field.

The crowd that gave the winning team a grand welcome, coach Vanlalthlanga and manager Lalbiakzuala. Pic/Ropuia Photography