Eydhafushi has won against Male' with a score of 2-0 and has ranked first in Group B in the Ninety Plus Gold Cup tournament.
Eydhafushi has won against Male' with a score of 2-0 and has ranked first in Group B in the Ninety Plus Gold Cup tournament.
Through winning three matches, Eydhafushi has garnered 9 points. Male', with two wins, holds 6 points, and ranks second in Group B.
In last night's match, the first attack was from Male'. But the shot from Ismail Vifaq (Isse') from Male' team went wide of the goal, and the team was unable to perform at the same level as they had in the two previous matches.
Ahmed Aiham (Aih), from Raa atoll Inguraidhoo, took the lead for Eydhafushi. Aiham, who plays for SUS Academy in the Premier League, scored a goal through a free kick.
As the first half neared an end, it appeared as if Male' might even the score, but the attempt was in vain. Eydhafushi keeper Ali Ajufan proved highly alert, blocking the ball sent by Ahmed Maish Rasheed (Maai), also blocking the second attempt from Ismail Wajeeh (Vajje') as the ball rebounced.
In the second half, Mohamed Fasir (Faatte'), who went on to be crowned Man of the Match, scored Eydhafushi's second goal, leading to a roar of celebration from the spectators.
As the match neared an end, Male' keeper Athif Ahmed was injured, leading Captain Rilwan Waheed (Riley) to take over from him. Rilwan defended a shot sent by Fasir near the end of the match.
Thimarafushi and Thulhaadhoo in Group B did not receive any points in either of their two matches. Hence, the third ranking team in the Group will be decided through a match between these two teams this afternoon.
Gold Cup's group stage is held in two rounds. The best three teams in each group in the first round will make it to the second round.