Assam’s football icon Gilbertson Sangma passed away on Saturday, April 4, at the age of 71, concluding a remarkable career that significantly impacted the state’s football scene. Known as the “Man with the Golden Boot,” Sangma took his last breath at his home in Guwahati after a battle with age-related illnesses.
During the 1970s and 80s, Sangma played a pivotal role in elevating Assam’s presence in domestic football, a period dominated by teams from Bengal and Kerala. His skill, consistency, and goal-scoring prowess made him one of the most revered forwards of his time.
Struggling with health issues for several years, including dementia, Sangma’s passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes, with clubs like NorthEast United FC expressing their condolences and acknowledging his significant contributions to football in the region.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also paid homage to Sangma’s illustrious career in a social media post.
Sangma’s football journey spanned 17 years, during which he represented Assam and Assam Police with distinction. A standout moment occurred in 1981 when he scored the decisive goal that led Assam Police to victory over Dempo SC in the prestigious Bordoloi Trophy final.
His impact was also felt during Assam’s memorable Santosh Trophy campaign in the 1974-75 season, where his crucial goal against defending champions Kerala propelled the team into the quarterfinals.
Achieving national recognition at the peak of his career, Sangma represented India in international friendlies in Indonesia and Thailand in the mid-1970s. In 2022, he was honored with the Assam Saurabh award, the state’s second-highest civilian honor, in recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Even after retiring from the police force, Sangma remained actively involved in Assam’s football scene, serving as an inspiration to the younger generation.