Maldives to host Palestinian U-17 football team for training camp

MALÉ, Maldives (MNTV) — The Maldives will host the Palestinian under-17 national football team for a training camp beginning November 8, in what officials described as both an act of solidarity with Palestine and a chance to provide international exposure for Maldivian youth players.

The Palestinian Football Association requested the arrangement after Israel’s ongoing war left stadiums and training facilities in Gaza and the West Bank inaccessible. With athletes unable to prepare at home, Palestinian teams have increasingly relied on foreign federations for support. 

Responding to this appeal, the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) confirmed that it would host the squad in Malé in the run-up to the AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers.

FAM’s executive committee said it would seek government assistance to cover accommodation and logistical expenses for the Palestinian delegation. The federation also plans to approach private sponsors to support the organization of two friendly matches between the Maldives U-17 and Palestine U-17 teams during the camp.

“The Palestinian Under-17 national team has requested the support of the Palestinian Football Association to arrange a training camp in the Maldives. We are seeking government assistance to provide accommodation and other logistical arrangements, as well as approval to host two friendly matches during their stay,” FAM said in a statement.

After completing the camp in Malé, the Palestinian team will travel directly to India to compete in Group D of the Asian Cup qualifiers from November 22 to 30. The group includes India, Iran, Chinese Taipei, and Lebanon.

The winners of each group will progress to the AFC U-17 Asian Cup finals, scheduled to be hosted by Saudi Arabia in May 2026.