Maldivian National Futsal Team Celebrated Following SAFF Championship Victory

The Maldivian national futsal team received a warm and celebratory welcome upon their return to the Maldives after winning the inaugural South Asian Futsal Championship.

The team, which won every match in the tournament, arrived at Velana International Airport to a display of fireworks and the presence of key officials.

Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu, Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thoriq, and Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal greeted the team at the airport. Family members of the players, senior officials from the Sports Ministry and FAM, and members of the wider football community also joined in the celebrations.

Following their arrival, the team travelled by bus to the Social Centre, which was followed by a vehicle parade along Majeedhee Magu to the Artificial Beach. Members of the public joined the celebrations along the parade route, sharing in the team’s success.

At the Artificial Beach, a large crowd of family members, futsal supporters, and members of the public had gathered to welcome the players. The team and officials ascended a stage via a red carpet, where captain Mohamed Imran, Minister Rafiu, and FAM President Thoriq officially hoisted the trophy.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) set off fireworks to mark the occasion, accompanied by boduberu and other musical performances. Members of the public were also given the opportunity to take photos with the players and the trophy.

The Maldives secured the championship in Bangkok, Thailand, finishing the tournament with 18 points and a perfect winning record.