Nonthaburi, Thailand: Maldives Women’s National Futsal Team suffered a 3–1 defeat to Pakistan in the ongoing SAFF Futsal Championship, but delivered their most encouraging performance of the tournament so far.
After heavy losses in their opening two matches an 11–1 defeat to India followed by a 5–0 loss to Nepal, Maldives showed clear improvement against Pakistan, competing strongly in both halves and creating enough goal-scoring opportunities to challenge for a positive result.
Pakistan, who had drawn 1–1 with Bhutan in their opening match before edging Sri Lanka 3–2 in their second fixture, started confidently at the Nonthaburi Stadium Indoor Hall. In-form forward Azwa Chaudhary opened the scoring, finishing into the far corner from a corner kick delivered by team captain Zahra Bokhari.
Maldives responded with increased attacking intent, and their pressure paid off in the ninth minute when Mariyam Noora struck a well-taken free kick to bring the scores level. The match looked poised to go into halftime all square, but Zahra Bokhari restored Pakistan’s lead two minutes before the break with a deft lob over Maldivian goalkeeper Saiga Hussain.
Shortly after the restart, Pakistan extended their advantage as Anmool Hira capitalized on a rebound to score the third goal.
Despite trailing, Maldives continued to push forward in the second half. Noora, alongside Fathimath Saina and Fathimath Saliya, created several promising chances, but were unable to find the breakthrough.
Pakistan goalkeeper Ghazala Amir produced a series of solid saves to deny Maldives a second goal.
Maldives head coach Athif Mohamed (Athi) acknowledged the team’s improved display but highlighted fitness and recovery as ongoing challenges, noting that Maldives had significantly less preparation time than their opponents and limited recovery between their first three matches.
He also stressed the need for greater efficiency in front of goal in the remaining fixtures.
Maldives will look to build on their improved performance when they face Bhutan on January 21, as they continue their SAFF Futsal Championship campaign.
