Colombo, Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka’s national football coach Abdulla Al-Mutairi has declared the upcoming South Asian Super Cup clashes against the Maldives as historic, stressing that his team cannot afford another defeat after more than two decades without a win against their island neighbors.

Speaking ahead of the matches scheduled for September 6 and 9 in Colombo, Al-Mutairi emphasized the weight of the occasion.

“I’m happy to face Maldives. Since 2002, around 7.1 million people have been born in Sri Lanka, and none of them have seen Sri Lanka beat Maldives. The last time was April 2002. This match is very important. It is the first edition of the South Asian Super Cup, and in my belief, the trophy must stay in Colombo,” he said.

The coach admitted he has lost three finals in his career but made it clear he does not intend to accept a fourth.

“It’s not acceptable to lose (not to win) for 23 years against Maldives. Yes, this is a friendly tournament, but for me there is no such thing as a friendly. Every 90 minutes is war, and we must win. I told my players I don’t care what the situation is we cannot lose again.”

Al-Mutairi, who previously coached Nepal and stunned Maldives in the 2021 SAFF Championship opener, explained how South Asian teams often falter due to mentality.

“Sometimes both teams take things too easy. That’s a mentality issue in South Asia. There is no relaxing in football until the 90 minutes are over. If we are serious, like in the Chinese Taipei match, we must win. After the final whistle, yes—hug, laugh, enjoy. But during the match, it’s war.”

He also reflected on Maldives’ past strength.

“In SAFF 2021, when I coached Nepal, Maldives were a very strong team. They had results against China, Syria, the Philippines, they even beat Guam. To us, a draw against Maldives felt like a win. That’s how good they were. But now both teams are in a new phase and must prove themselves again.”

The Sri Lanka coach outlined the dual significance of these fixtures, not only as part of the Super Cup but also as preparation for the Asian Cup qualifiers.

“These two matches will show our level before facing Turkmenistan. If we dream to qualify for the Asian Cup, we must beat them. Maldives also need these games to prepare. For me, personally, for the players, for the federation, and for the people, these matches are crucial. We cannot cry again after 90 minutes. Insha Allah, we will win.”

Sri Lanka, currently ranked 196th in FIFA, are aiming to prove they can compete with stronger nations, while Maldives look to rebuild under new leadership. With 23 years of frustration fueling the hosts, the stage is set for two fiercely contested battles in Colombo.