Male’, Maldives: Club HDC secured their first-ever Volleyball Association Cup title, defeating Dhivehi Sifainge Club (DSC) in a thrilling five-set final.
In their earlier group-stage encounter, DSC had triumphed in a similar five-set battle, but this time it was HDC who emerged victorious.
The final sets were decided with scores of 25-20, 29-31, 20-25, 25-17, and 13-15.
Ismail Sajid (Kudakaatte) was instrumental in HDC's win, delivering powerful shots during crucial moments of the match. His performance earned him the title of Man of the Match, and he was also named Tournament's Best Player while making the competition's Dream Team.
Though DSC started strong, dominating the first set, DSC's Adam Nasym and Hussain Razzan were exceptional.
Gradually, HDC's momentum built as the match progressed. Adam Fairuz and Mohamed Ahsan also stepped up at key moments, playing pivotal roles in securing the title for HDC.
Throughout the tournament, Zhantemir Zheenbek Uulu from HDC proved to be a key player, earning the Best Foreign Player award.
Meanwhile, Shaamil Mohamed of Police Club was recognized with the Most Promising Player trophy, and Hussain Shareef (Nala Shareef) was named Best Coach.
HDC advanced to the final after City Sports Club, a former champion, chose not to compete. The decision came in response to the Volleyball Association's refusal to address a case City had lodged against DSC for fielding ineligible players.
The Association ruled that City’s complaint did not meet the criteria for a formal case.
Association Cup Dream Team:
Ismail Sajid (Kudakaatte) - Club HDC (Opposite Player)
Adam Fairuz - Club HDC (Middle Blocker)
Mohamed Ahsan - Club HDC (Middle Blocker)
Saud Ahmed - Club HDC (Libero)
Adam Nasym - DSC (Outside Attacker)
Hussain Razzan - DSC (Opposite Player)
Hussain Shahid - DSC (Setter)
