Maziya End Hernandez Era on High

Mar 18, 2026, 9:14 AM
Maziya End Hernandez Era on High

Male' Maldives: Maziya Sports and Recreation Club and Spanish head coach Luisma Hernández have officially parted ways by mutual consent following the completion of his contract, bringing an end to a highly successful spell in which the club secured three domestic titles in a single season.

Hernández joined Maziya in January and immediately made a significant impact, guiding the club to victories in the FAM League Cup, FA Charity Shield, and the Dhivehi Premier League.

Under his leadership, Maziya maintained strong consistency throughout the season and reaffirmed their status as one of the dominant forces in Maldivian football.

The Spaniard’s only defeat against a local opponent came in the final of the President's Cup, where Maziya were edged out by Odi Sports Club in a penalty shootout after a tightly contested final. His other defeat during the season came on the continental stage against Al Arabi in the AFC Challenge League qualifier.

Across all competitions, Hernández took charge of Maziya in 30 matches, recording 24 wins, four draws, and only two defeats, a record that underlines the effectiveness of his short but productive tenure with the club.

With only the FA Cup remaining in Maziya’s season, assistant coach Ahmed Suzair will assume responsibility for leading the team for the remainder of the campaign.

Speaking exclusively to "Adhadhu Sports", Hernández reflected positively on his time in the Maldives and expressed pride in what was achieved during his single season at the club.

“As I’ve already said, thank you for everything. One season and three titles together. I leave very proud of the work done, especially for the Premier League, which will continue to offer opportunities to play in the AFC.”

He also praised the squad he worked with during his tenure, highlighting the professionalism and commitment shown by both local and foreign players.

“I want to highlight the group of players I’ve been lucky enough to coach and to share my experience and high standards with, local players, international players, and committed foreign players. And, as in other countries, I’m happy to continue investing in talented young players. Also, we supported many players for the national team.”

The Spanish coach further acknowledged the support structure around the club, describing the staff as a key part of the season’s success.

“Thanks to the large and well-organized staff.”

Looking beyond club football, Hernández also shared his hopes for the wider future of football in the Maldives, especially under new leadership within the federation and national team setup.

“I wish the best for Maziya and the Maldives. New federation, new national team coach. May they continue investing in improving infrastructure in Malé and the islands, and may they continue investing in young players; they are the present and future of the country. This will allow the league and the national team to improve and grow.”

Hernández leaves Maziya having delivered silverware, strengthened the squad’s competitive standard, and contributed to the development of several players who have since moved closer to national team involvement. His departure closes a successful chapter for both coach and club, with Maziya now turning attention to the FA Cup under new technical leadership.

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