President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has this evening called upon the national football team to make winning the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Challenge Cup this year, their lofty ambition. The President made this appeal while meeting the national football team taking part in the AFC Challenge Cup, scheduled to begin in the Maldives next week.
Speaking at the function held at Muleeaage, the President revealed the Government’s decision to award MVR 1 million to the football team, provided that they reach the semifinals in this year’s tournament.
In his speech, the President highlighted the many challenges faced by the Government in hosting the AFC Challenge Cup in the Maldives. He noted that the Government had put in every effort, within the short time available, to hold the tournament in the Maldives, for its youth, for national unity, and for the love of football. And by grace of Allah, it has been accomplished.
In his speech, the President said that the cost of renovation and upgrading of stadiums for the AFC Challenge Cup was an investment made for the future. Speaking in this regard, the President expressed hopes that this would provide the opportunity to host future matches in the country, at regional and international levels, and take Maldivian football forward.
Underlining the special priority given to sports development by today’s Government, the President highlighted the pledges made in the Sports Agenda of the Government’s electoral manifesto.
At the function, the President of the Football Association of Maldives, Ilham Ahmed presented the national team jersey to President Yameen.
