BML creates unforgettable memories for father and daughter

Sa'ad Ibrahim has always been a passionate football fan. He regularly watches top European matches, and last season’s UEFA Champions League semi-final felt like fate. It was a clash between his two favorite teams: Spain’s FC Barcelona and Italy’s Inter Milan.

While watching the first leg of that semi-final, Sa'ad received an unexpected and joyful surprise. He was offered an opportunity from Bank of Maldives (BML) to travel to Germany and watch the final match in person.

Even more special was the chance for his 8-year-old daughter, Sumayya Sa'ad Ibrahim, to take part in the final as a player mascot.

Sa’ad was aware that the promotion was organized by BML and Mastercard, one of the Champions League’s official sponsors, but he never had high hopes of winning.

The campaign allowed participants to enter the draw simply by using their Mastercard debit, credit, or prepaid cards for local and international payments.

“I always use my Mastercard. For shopping, at cafés, everywhere,” Sa’ad said.

“I got entered into the draw that way, but I never imagined I’d actually win.”

When the announcement came, he was thrilled. Not only was he going to witness the Champions League final at the iconic Allianz Arena in Munich, but also his favorite team, Inter Milan, had reached the final. Yet, what touched him most was the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity his daughter received.

Sumayya was selected to walk out onto the field with the players as a mascot, standing proudly for the legendary Champions League anthem.

“At first, she didn’t quite understand what a big honor it was,” Sa’ad said. “But after arriving, attending rehearsals, and being part of it all, she realized how special this was.”

Sumayya was matched with none other than PSG’s Désiré Doué, who went on to score two goals, win Man of the Match, and become a national hero as Paris Saint-Germain clinched their first-ever Champions League title.

“When she saw the award ceremony and the celebrations, my daughter truly understood the importance of what she experienced,” Sa’ad said.

Among all the mascots, Sumayya was the only child from Asia, while the rest were European. This made the moment even more meaningful for Sa’ad.

“I thought other kids from this region might be there. But it turned out to be a unique opportunity given to the Maldives. I felt very proud.”

Although Sa’ad had traveled to Europe before, this was his first time attending a European football match, and what a debut it was.

“To see with my own eyes what I had only watched on TV before was unforgettable. Entering one of the world’s biggest stadiums and experiencing such a well-organized event was amazing.”

Sa’ad expressed heartfelt thanks to BML for making the experience possible, especially for the smooth and seamless arrangements, from securing visas to travel and accommodation.

“We are deeply grateful. BML gave us a gift we will remember for the rest of our lives.”