Male', Maldives (September 16): Maldives champions Maziya Sports and Recreation have bolstered their squad with the signing of four foreign players in preparation for the AFC Challenge League 24/25.
The new additions are Australian midfielder Nicholas Olsen, Australian defender Aaron Evans, Croatian defender Mario Zebic, and Montenegrin goalkeeper Nemanja Lemajic.
In the AFC Challenge League, Maziya S&R will compete in Group B against Al Arabi of Kuwait, Arkadag of Turkmenistan, and Abdysh-Ata Kant of Kyrgyzstan.
All group stage matches are scheduled to take place in Kuwait from October 26 to November 1.
Under the guidance of Serbian UEFA Pro License coach Dragan Dukanovic, Maziya began their preparations earlier this month.
The Maldives football season has been stalled due to financial challenges faced by clubs and the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) under its normalization committee.
Croatian defender Mario Zebic brings valuable experience from his stints with clubs in Croatia, Poland, Germany, Romania, and most recently, Vietnam.
Nicholas Olsen, with a background in top leagues across Australia, Kuwait, and Vietnam, adds versatility and depth to the midfield. Aaron Evans contributes his extensive experience from top leagues in Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Bangladesh.
Goalkeeper Nemanja Lemajic, who has played for top-division clubs in Armenia and Montenegro, is expected to be a solid reinforcement as Maziya gears up for the AFC Challenge League.
