Naivaadhoo Ascends to Futsal Throne Beating Dhevvadhoo

In a stunning comeback, HDh. Naivaadhoo clinched the championship of the HD Hyundai Golden Futsal Challenge 2026, defeating GA. Dhevvadhoo in the final of the Maldives' largest and most prestigious futsal tournament.

While this was Dhevvadhoo's debut in a Golden Futsal Challenge final, Naivaadhoo entered tonight's match as seasoned finalists, having competed in last year’s final where they lost to K. Kaashidhoo. Interestingly, Kaashidhoo’s coach last year was Ali Haisam (Chumpu), a veteran player currently representing the Dhevvadhoo squad. In tonight’s showdown, Naivaadhoo dominated the encounter, securing the title with a convincing 9-3 victory.

The match began with a shock lead for Dhevvadhoo, who scored within the first 15 seconds. Capitalizing on a momentary lapse in Naivaadhoo’s defense, Ahmed Rahil Rasheed (Raakko) sent a pass from Mohamed Imran (Immi) into the back of the net.

Despite the early setback, a resilient Naivaadhoo equalized within three minutes. Ahmed Haleem (Ammadey) clinical finish from a free-kick, awarded following a foul by Immi, leveled the score.

Naivaadhoo continued to press forward with relentless attacks. Consequently, Dhevvadhoo's defense struggled to contain them, committing four fouls within just five minutes. Abdulla Shafiu (Shaappe) was particularly threatening throughout the half.

Before the first half concluded, Naivaadhoo added three more goals to their tally. These were scored by Shaappe, Captain Yameen Mohamed (Yante), and Ammadey. Ammadey’s second goal came from a penalty after Dhevvadhoo's goalkeeper Ibrahim Shazleel committed a foul inside the area.

As the half drew to a close, tensions rose, requiring the referees to consult Video Support (VS) for several decisions. Dhevvadhoo was awarded two long-range penalties after Naivaadhoo reached their foul limit, but Naivaadhoo’s goalkeeper Ibrahim Najih (Hate) made spectacular saves to deny them. The first half ended 4-1 in favor of Naivaadhoo.

The second half maintained its high intensity, with both teams creating numerous scoring opportunities. While Hate continued to guard Naivaadhoo's goal against Raakko’s attempts, Dhevvadhoo's Shazleel also made key saves from Maishan's strikes.

Eight minutes into the second half, Dhevvadhoo managed to pull one back. A shot from Huzaifath Rasheed (Huze) deflected off Raakko’s leg and found its way into the net, making it 4-2.

However, Naivaadhoo responded just three minutes later to restore their three-goal cushion. Maishan scored after connecting with a well-placed free-kick from Shaappe.

Dhevvadhoo nearly scored again shortly after, but Raakko’s effort struck the post, and Immi’s follow-up was blocked by the ever-reliable Hate.

As Dhevvadhoo pushed forward, Naivaadhoo exploited the space on the counter-attack. Mohamed Vishan (Vishante) finished a pass from Shaappe to extend the lead to 6-2.

With five minutes remaining, Dhevvadhoo offered a glimmer of hope when Immi scored their third goal.

In a final attempt to close the gap, Dhevvadhoo switched to a "power play" strategy. However, Naivaadhoo capitalized on the empty net when Shaappe intercepted a ball and scored from distance.

In the final minute of the match, Naivaadhoo added two more goals through Maishan and Shaappe as Dhevvadhoo's entire team pushed forward, bringing the final score to a dominant 9-3.