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Ahmed Aiham (Fatho), a key midfielder for Maziya Sports and Recreation and a native of Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll, has been excluded from the national football team squad for the upcoming Asian Cup Qualifiers match.
The decision has drawn widespread criticism toward the Football Association of Maldives (FAM), with many arguing that the move undermines island football and discourages players from representing their home communities.
FAM stated that Aiham was removed from the squad due to his participation in a futsal tournament without obtaining prior permission and for missing the national team training session held yesterday afternoon. In its statement, FAM said it expects players selected for the national team to act responsibly and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.
Aiham played for Utheemu in the Thila Uthuru Futsal Tournament 2025, organized by the Haa Alifu Atoll Council and hosted in his home island. He joined the team for the semi-final match against Filladhoo on 9 November, scoring the third goal from the penalty spot and helping secure Utheemu’s place in the semi-finals.
Aiham is regarded as one of the fastest-rising football talents in the Maldives. Since last year, he has regularly earned his place in the national team and was in the starting lineup for the match against Tajikistan last month.
His exclusion comes after the national team had already selected a preliminary squad of 25 players and begun preparations for the Asian Cup Qualifiers match against the Philippines, scheduled for the 18th of this month at Galolhu Stadium.
The decision also prompted strong criticism from Ibrahim Sujau, Member of Parliament for the Baarah constituency. In a post on social media, he wrote:
“The decision by the Football Association is difficult to accept. The excuse given for removing Aiham from the squad undermines island football. Aiham is a proud son of Utheemu. The children of our atoll must have the opportunity to play in the most prestigious tournament of the atoll. I encourage Aiham and wish him success. I call on FAM to reverse its decision.”
FAM had previously barred national futsal team players from participating in the Club Maldives Cup, a decision that also drew controversy.
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