The Maldives secured a place in the qualification phase of the AFC U20 competition after defeating Sri Lanka 4-0 today.

The match was played at Thuwunna Stadium in Myanmar as part of Group K of the AFC U20 Development Phase.

The Maldives took the lead in first-half stoppage time through captain Mohamed Ilan Imran, who converted a rebound after Sri Lanka goalkeeper Shathin saved an initial effort from Nassah Ibrahim.

The Maldives continued to create chances after the break, with Shathin making several saves. However, the visitors doubled their lead in the 60th minute when Mohamed Shamhan scored with a shot from outside the penalty area.

Sri Lanka were reduced to 10 men in the 63rd minute after Mohamed Fariq was shown a second yellow card.

Nassah then added a third in the 78th minute with a header from a corner before scoring again a minute later to complete the 4-0 victory.

The Maldives will play their final Development Phase match against hosts Myanmar on Sunday.

Both the Maldives and Myanmar have six points, with Myanmar currently ahead on goal difference. Both teams have already secured qualification from the group.