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Former India Football Star Gilbertson Sangma Passes Away at 70

The All India Football Federation has expressed condolences following the death of former India forward Gilbertson Sangma at age 70. Sangma represented India internationally in 1975, earning three caps during the Marah Halim Cup in Jakarta. At the domestic level, he was a consistent performer for Assam in the Santosh Trophy for nearly a decade. He also scored the title-winning goal for Assam Police in the 1981 Bordoloi Trophy final.

Key Points: AIFF Condoles Death of Former India Forward Gilbertson Sangma

  • Former India forward passed away at 70
  • Made senior debut vs Indonesia in 1975
  • Earned three caps for national team
  • Scored decisive Bordoloi Trophy final goal
  • Santosh Trophy performer for Assam from 1972-80
1 min read

AIFF condoles the death of former India forward Gilbertson Sangma

The AIFF mourns the passing of former India international forward Gilbertson Sangma, who earned three caps and was a Santosh Trophy stalwart for Assam.

"The All India Football Federation joins the Indian football fraternity in mourning the loss of Gilbertson Sangma - AIFF Release"

New Delhi, April 6

The All India Football Federation condoled the death of former India forward Gilbertson Sangma, who passed away in Guwahati on April 3, 2026. Sangma passed away aged 70.

A forward of repute from Assam, Gilbertson Sangma represented India at the international level in 1975, according to the AIFF release. He made his senior national team debut against Indonesia on April 17, 1975, in the Marah Halim Cup in Jakarta. Sangma went on to earn three caps for India, all of which came during the same tournament.

At the domestic level, Sangma was a consistent performer for Assam in the Santosh Trophy from 1972 to 1980, scoring four goals in the competition during his appearances for the state side.

At the club level, he represented Assam Police from 1972 to 1982 and was part of the team that won the Bordoloi Trophy in 1981. Sangma scored the decisive goal in the final against Dempo, sealing the title for his side.

The All India Football Federation joins the Indian football fraternity in mourning the loss of Gilbertson Sangma and honours his contributions to the sport.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Very sad news. 70 is still young these days. It's heartening to see AIFF acknowledging past players. So many from that era go unrecognized. His story of representing India and scoring a crucial final goal is inspiring. My condolences to his family and the Assam football community.
A
Aman W
This is why we need a proper football museum or hall of fame in India. Players like Sangma sir are the foundation. Only 3 caps but a lifetime of service to the sport in Assam. His legacy is in the passion for football in the Northeast today. Om Shanti.
S
Sarah B
Reading this makes me appreciate the deep history of Indian football beyond just the ISL. The Santosh Trophy, Bordoloi Trophy... these were huge events. Respect to Mr. Sangma for his contributions. Wishing strength to his loved ones.
V
Vikram M
A respectful critique: While the condolence is good, AIFF and our media should do more to document and celebrate these legends *while* they are with us. How many of us knew about Gilbertson Sangma before this obituary? We need active preservation of our sporting heritage.
K
Karthik V
Assam has given so much to Indian football. Salute to a stalwart. Playing for the national team in 1975 and then serving Assam Police for a decade – true dedication. May his soul attain sadgati. 🙏

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