Assam football legend Gilberton Sangma passed away at the age of 70 on Friday morning.
Often referred to as Assam’s greatest ever footballer, Sangma spent his entire domestic career playing for his state and the Assam Police, winning the Bordoloi Trophy in 1981 where he scored the winning goal against Dempo SC.
Playing as a forward for 17 years, Sangma built Assam into a force to be reckoned with in an era dominated by Bengal and Kerala.
In the 1974–75 season, his goal helped Assam eliminate defending champions Kerala and reach the quarter-finals of the Santosh Trophy.
Sangma played three times for the Indian national team in 1975 in friendly matches against Indonesia and Thailand.
“A true icon of the game, he inspired generations with his passion, skill and unforgettable presence on the field, especially during the golden era of the Bordoloi Trophy,” the District Sports Association of Dibrugarh, where Sangma was born, wrote on social media ans8xjk.
“His legacy will live on in the hearts of football fans and aspiring players. Our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Published on April 4, 2026
