Maldives defeated Sri Lanka in the opening match of the Commonwealth Beach Handball Tournament, marking the nation’s first-ever win in an international beach handball competition.

The match, held at the Kulhudhuffushi Beach Handball Arena, ended 2-1 in favour of the Maldives. The team took the first set 28-24, while Sri Lanka levelled the score by winning the second set 34-26. The Maldives sealed victory in a tense shootout, winning 7-4. Ahmed Raznee Mohamed was named Player of the Match.

This year’s tournament is the first international beach handball event to be hosted in the Maldives. Participating teams include the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and South Africa.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu (Rappe), senior Commonwealth officials, and members of the Kulhudhuffushi City Council.

The Maldives will face South Africa in their second match tomorrow at 8 a.m.