The Maldives secured a stunning victory against rivals India in their third match of the SAFF Futsal Championship. In the match held at Nonthaburi Hall in Bangkok, the Maldives triumphed with a convincing 5-0 scoreline.
The first half witnessed a highly competitive display, with India initially dominating possession and creating several dangerous goal-scoring opportunities. Despite the pressure and numerous fouls from both sides, Maldivian goalkeeper Zaidhan Ahmed demonstrated exceptional skill and alertness, thwarting every Indian attempt on goal. The Maldives broke the deadlock in the 12th minute during a swift counter-attack. Captain Mohamed Imran (Inmi) clinicaly finished a precise pass from Abdulla Shau (Shappe) to give the Maldives the lead.
After adopting a defensive stance in the opening half, the Maldives shifted to a more offensive strategy in the second half, scoring two quick goals early on. Just a minute and a half into the restart, Shafiu doubled the lead by beating the Indian goalkeeper. Three minutes later, Ali Shamal Abdulla (Shammu) netted the third goal, finishing an assist from Huzaifath Rasheed (Huzey).
The fourth goal was scored by Captain Imran once again. In the 15th minute of the half, while India was utilizing a power play with their players pushed forward, Shafiu intercepted the ball and passed it to Imran, who expertly scored from within his own half into the empty net.
The Maldives’ fifth and final goal mirrored the fourth; Ahmed Hamied (Ammadey) capitalized on India’s power play by striking the ball from his own half into the unguarded net.
This significant victory has greatly bolstered the Maldives’ hopes of clinching the inaugural SAFF Futsal Championship. Having won all three matches played so far, the Maldives currently leads the standings with 9 points. Pakistan follows in second place with 7 points from four matches, while Nepal sits in third with 5 points from three games. India, following their defeat to the Maldives, remains in fourth place with 2 points from three matches.
