Former India footballer Gilbertson Sangma passes away at 70

The All India Football Federation condoled the death of former India forward Gilbertson Sangma, who passed away at 70. A former international, he represented India in 1975 and was a key performer for Assam in domestic football

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

A forward of repute from Assam, Gilbertson Sangma represented India at the international level in 1975. 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.

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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 joined the Indian football fraternity in mourning the loss of Gilbertson Sangma and honoured his contributions to the sport.

Former internationals from Hyderabad, Victor Amalraj and Shabbir Ali, also expressed condolences and recalled Sangma’s exceptional skills.