The Maldives national futsal team has been crowned champions of the inaugural SAFF Futsal Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, securing the title with a match to spare.
Maldives continued their impressive run in the tournament by defeating Bhutan 3–1, coming from behind to seal the championship. Bhutan took an early lead after capitalising on a defensive lapse, catching the Maldivian goalkeeper in a two-on-one situation to score first. It was the only time Maldives trailed in the competition.
Abdulla Junaid equalised before halftime, restoring parity for Maldives. Ahmed Mohamed then put his side ahead with a well-taken free kick, before captain Mohamed Imran added the third goal to confirm the victory and maintain Maldives’ perfect record in the tournament.
The champions began their campaign in dominant fashion with a 7–1 win over Pakistan, followed by a 6–1 victory against Bangladesh. Maldives then secured a commanding 5–0 win over India and edged past Nepal 2–1 in a closely contested encounter. Maldives will conclude their SAFF Futsal Championship campaign against Sri Lanka on January 26.
