Assam football legend Gilberton Sangma passed away at the age of 70 on Friday morning at his Kahilipara residence in Guwahati. Recognized as one of the finest footballers from Assam, Sangma dedicated his entire domestic career to representing Assam and Assam Police. A significant highlight of his career was in 1981 when he scored the winning goal that led Assam Police to victory in the Bordoloi Trophy against Dempo SC. His death has drawn condolences from prominent figures, including Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora, both acknowledging his immense contributions to Indian football and his inspirational role for the youth of the Northeast. Sangma was praised for his consistency and influence as a forward over his 17-year career, a period during which Assam emerged as a notable competitor in domestic football, previously dominated by Bengal and Kerala. His impactful performances included scoring a critical goal in the 1974–75 season that eliminated the defending champions, Kerala, from the Santosh Trophy. Additionally, he represented India on three occasions in 1975 during friendly matches against Indonesia and Thailand.
