Male' Maldives: Club Maldives Cup 2025 got underway in dramatic fashion last night, with Road Recreation Club (RRC) delivering a major upset against tournament giants STO RC, while MACL and Club Immigration also made strong starts with opening day victories.
Before the action began, fans witnessed a heartfelt moment as a special tribute was made to RRC’s star player Ali Haafiz, popularly known as Haappe. Recently ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle injury, Haappe was honored by Club Maldives with a public “get well soon” message, recognizing his long-standing contribution to futsal.
In the marquee clash of the evening, RRC stunned record champions STO RC with a late winner to seal a 1-0 victory in their Group B fixture. The game was tightly contested throughout, but it was Abdulla Yaameen who broke the deadlock in the dying minutes, handing RRC a memorable win and the perfect start to their campaign.
Group B also featured a thrilling contest between Club Fen and Customs RC, ending in a 2-2 draw. Goals from, Foreigner, Ehab Athef and Maufooz Adam put Customs on the scoresheet, while Fen responded through Solah Ali and Saifan Ahmed, ensuring both teams shared the points.
Meanwhile, in Group A, MACL opened their campaign with a narrow 2-1 win over Dhivehi Sifainge Club (DSC). Goals from Ahmed Husaam (Husaanko) and Azyan Ibrahim gave MACL the edge, while Iranian forward Soroush Sheikholharam Mashadi pulled one back for DSC. Despite late pressure, MACL managed to see out the win.
Club Immigration cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Baros Maldives in their Group A's other match. Abdulla Rimah, Kaisan Bin Hisan, and Hussain Niyaz all found the net in a dominant display that sent a strong message to their group rivals.
The 2025 tournament features 23 teams, following the withdrawal of Ooredoo after the group stage draw. Despite that adjustment, the competition is already living up to expectations with upsets, tight contests, and standout performances.
Action continues tonight with three more group stage fixtures. Stelco RC take on Club HDC, Maldivian will face Team FSM, and Prison Club go head-to-head with Team Fenaka.
If opening night was any indication, this year’s Club Maldives Cup promises plenty of surprises, rivalries, and standout moments.
