Maldives forms first-ever national women’s futsal team
Historic squad to debut in SAFF championship in Thailand, marking milestone for women’s indoor football in Maldives
MALE, Maldives (MNTV) — Maldives has formed its first-ever national women’s futsal team, marking a significant breakthrough for women’s sports in the island nation as the squad prepares to compete in the inaugural SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship in Thailand later this month.
The team will make its international debut at the tournament, scheduled to run from January 13 to 25, becoming the first Maldivian women’s side to represent the country in competitive futsal at regional level. Sports officials and players have described the development as a long-awaited step toward expanding opportunities for women beyond traditional outdoor football.
The squad was assembled following the conclusion of the Women’s Football League, organized by the Football Association of Maldives to identify talent for both football and futsal. Despite logistical challenges during the league phase, national team training camps went ahead, allowing selectors to finalize a futsal squad drawn largely from the existing women’s national football pool.
The final team consists of 14 players, most of whom have previously represented Maldives at senior football level. Among them are national team regulars Mariyam Rifa and Raniya Ibrahim, while Fathimath Faiha Ali of New Radiant Sports Club is the only player selected directly from recent domestic league competition without prior national team experience.
The Maldivian side will face stiff competition in the seven-team tournament. Their opening match on January 13 will be against India, followed by fixtures against Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
Sports administrators say the creation of a women’s futsal team reflects growing recognition of the sport’s potential in Maldives, where futsal is widely played at grassroots and club levels. Advocates for women’s sport note that the national debut could help accelerate investment, coaching development, and visibility for women athletes in the country.
For the players, the Thailand tournament represents more than competition — it is a statement of presence, signalling Maldives’ entry into women’s futsal at the regional stage.
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