Futsal Champions welcomed back with cheers and fireworks

The Maldivian national futsal team, who won the South Asian futsal championship, was given a warm welcome tonight with fireworks upon their return with the trophy.

The Maldivian team, who won the inaugural SAFF Futsal Championship by winning every match, was greeted at Velana International Airport by Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu, FAM President Ahmed Thoriq (Tom), and Commissioner of Sports Mohamed Tholal.

Family members of the players also met and welcomed them at the airport. Other senior officials from the Sports Ministry and FAM, as well as members of the football community, also joined the players and officials in their celebrations at the airport.

Afterward, the team traveled by bus to the Social Center. This was followed by a vehicle parade. Starting from the Social Center, the parade traveled along Majeedhee Magu to the Artificial Beach. As the parade moved along, the public joined in the joy with the players at various points.

By the time the team reached the Artificial Beach, a large number of family members, futsal supporters, and members of the general public had gathered there.

The players and officials ascended a special stage set up there via a red carpet. Captain Mohamed Imran (Inmi), along with Minister Rafiu and FAM President Thoriq, officially hoisted the trophy.

Following this, the MNDF set off fireworks to welcome the team. Boduberu and musical activities were also carried out. This was followed by an opportunity for the public to take photos with the players and the trophy.

The Maldives won the tournament, held in the Thai capital of Bangkok, with 18 points.

The Maldives won their first match against Pakistan 7–1. They won the second match against Bangladesh 6–1, and the subsequent match against India was won 5–0. Following that, they defeated Nepal 2–1 and secured the trophy by winning 3–1 against Bhutan. In the final match, they won 5–2 against Sri Lanka.

The government has decided to award the team MVR 1 million as a bonus.