News

Hussain Shafiu Elected to SAFF Executive Committee

Football Association of Maldives (FAM) Vice President Hussain Shafiu has been elected to the Executive Committee of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), marking another significant milestone for Maldivian football on the regional stage.

Shafiu secured a place on the SAFF Executive Committee during the federation’s congress, strengthening the Maldives’ representation within South Asia’s governing football body. His election is expected to provide the country with a stronger voice in shaping the future of football development and competitions across the region.

A long-serving football administrator, Shafiu has played an important role in the administration of the Football Association of Maldives and has been actively involved in the growth and development of the sport at both the domestic and international levels.

His appointment is seen as a recognition of the Maldives’ continued contribution to South Asian football and offers an opportunity to further strengthen ties with fellow SAFF member associations.

The Football Association of Maldives congratulated Shafiu on his election, expressing confidence that his experience and leadership will contribute positively to the work of the SAFF Executive Committee and the continued progress of football across South Asia.

News

Maziya Appoint Czech Coach Tomas Trucha as New Head Coach

Defending Dhivehi Premier League champions Maziya Sports & Recreation have announced the appointment of experienced Czech coach Tomas Trucha as the club’s new head coach ahead of the new season.

Trucha, a UEFA Pro Licence holder, arrives with an extensive coaching career spanning Europe, Africa and Asia. Over the past two decades, he has managed clubs and national teams across several countries, bringing a wealth of international experience to the Green Boys.

The Czech tactician has previously worked in his home country as well as in South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Malaysia. Most recently, he was part of Indonesian top-flight side PSM Makassar, one of the country’s most successful football clubs.

Maziya expressed their delight in securing Trucha’s services, describing his appointment as the beginning of a new chapter for the club. The reigning league champions welcomed the coach to the Maziya family and wished him success as he prepares the team for the upcoming domestic and continental campaigns.

Trucha’s arrival comes as Maziya aim to build on their recent success after retaining the Charity Shield and continuing their dominance in Maldivian football. The club will now look to the experienced Czech coach to lead the team in their pursuit of more silverware in the 2026 season.

News

Hamza Joins Victory Sports Club for 2026 Season

Victory Sports Club have completed the signing of Hamza Mohamed, adding another key player to their squad ahead of the 2026 football season. The club officially announced the transfer this week, welcoming the talented midfielder to the Red and Yellow ranks.

Hamza expressed his excitement after completing the move, saying he is looking forward to the new challenge and is eager to contribute to Victory’s ambitions in the upcoming campaign. The transfer marks the third club of his senior career as he prepares for a fresh chapter with one of the Maldives’ most successful football clubs.

Victory have been active in the transfer market as they strengthen their squad for the new season under head coach Mohamed Siyaz. Hamza’s arrival is expected to add creativity, energy and depth to the midfield as the club aims to challenge for domestic honours.

The club welcomed the midfielder through its official social media channels, with supporters already expressing their excitement about seeing Hamza in Victory colours when the 2026 season gets underway.

News

Maldives Drawn with India and Pakistan in SAFF Championship 2026

The draw for the TECNO SAFF Championship 2026 was held today in Thimphu, Bhutan, with the Maldives placed in a challenging Group B alongside defending champions India and Pakistan.

The tournament’s other group, Group A, features hosts Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, setting up an exciting battle for the two semi-final places.

The draw has set the stage for one of the most anticipated group-stage battles of the competition, with Maldives facing regional giants India as well as Pakistan. The India-Pakistan clash is also expected to be one of the headline fixtures of the tournament.

The TECNO SAFF Championship 2026 will be hosted by Bangladesh from 4 to 17 November, featuring seven South Asian nations competing for regional supremacy.

SAFF Championship 2026 Draw

Group A

Bangladesh

Sri Lanka

Bhutan

Group B

India

Maldives