Ahmed Tariq, President of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), has stated that the Under-20 Diamond Jubilee Football Tournament, launched for Male’ high schools, serves as a crucial preparation phase for the upcoming SAFF Championship. The competing teams include Villa International High School, Ahmadhiyya International School, CHSE (Hulhumale’), and CHSE (Male’). Tariq noted a widely held belief that this current generation comprises some of the most talented U-20 players the Maldives has ever produced. He expressed confidence that the players selected from this tournament will form a formidable national squad for the future.
As the Maldives utilizes the available time to assemble a competitive team for the SAFF Championship, FAM’s new Technical Director, Istvan Urbanyi, is actively analyzing the matches. The tournament has already showcased exceptional talent, with CHSE Male’ securing a spot in the final after winning both of their matches and earning six points. CHSE Male’ confirmed their final berth following a commanding 7-1 victory over CHSE Hulhumale’.
Ahmadhiyya International School is also in a strong position to secure a place in the final, currently leading the table with four points from two matches. Villa International High School follows in third place within the four-team group with a single point. On the afternoon of February 12th, CHSE Hulhumale’ will face Villa High School, followed by a 9:00 PM clash between Ahmadhiyya International School and CHSE Male’. This year’s SAFF Championship is scheduled to take place at the Galolhu National Stadium from March 23rd to April 3rd. The Maldives will play its opening match against Sri Lanka on March 23rd, followed by encounters against Bhutan on March 25th and Nepal on March 27th.
