DPL returns with strong performances and fierce competition

The performance of all teams in this season’s Dhivehi Premier League (DPL) has been remarkable, drawing praise from two foreign coaches who highlighted the intense competitiveness throughout the league.

After a six-year hiatus, the Maldives’ top football league kicked off earlier this month. Given the long break from structured league play, many expected a dip in both competitiveness and overall quality. However, that hasn't been the case.

Coaches from Maziya and Odi Sports praised the level of play and the fierce competition among the teams.

“It’s very clear from the league standings just how competitive the league is,” said Maziya head coach Luisma Hernández.

“We see three, four, even five teams fighting for the top spot.”

The Spanish coach pointed out that while some teams had a late start in preparing for the season, their progress has been evident as the league has gone on.

Odi Sports coach Andrés García echoed similar sentiments, noting that every team has shown intent to play quality football.

“After the second week of matches, we knew the competition was strong,” García said. “All the teams started playing well, and the overall quality was impressive.”

He also commended the standard of coaching this season: “The coaches have done a great job. For me, the quality of this league is very good.”

Maziya’s Luisma emphasized that the league’s competitiveness is a significant boost for the national team. “This is excellent news for the Maldives national team—to see all the clubs playing at a high level. It’s not just Maziya; all the teams are contributing to the national side’s improvement,” he said.

Looking ahead, he believes the upcoming transfer windows will bring further improvements across teams.