Maldives finish qualifiers with a late turnaround against Timor‑Leste

Maldivian National Football Team celebrates the 2-1 win against Timor‑Leste at the Galolhu Stadium, securing their first win of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on March 31, 2026.

Maldives secured their first win of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers on Tuesday, beating Timor‑Leste 2–1 at the Galolhu Stadium after a strong second‑half comeback.

Hungarian coach Istvan Urbanyi fielded a mix of new and experienced players, with Ahmed Abdullah (Lily) and Ibrahim Waheed (Ibbe) in the starting XI. Maldives controlled most of the match, but Timor‑Leste struck first, putting pressure on the home side.

The game shifted when Ali Ashfaq (Dhagandey) and Sentey were brought on late in the second half. Their introduction immediately changed the tempo.

Ali Ashfaq (Dhagandey) during the Maldivian National Football Team's match against Timor‑Leste at the Galolhu Stadium, on March 31, 2026.

Just minutes after coming on, Mohamed Irfan (Irey) equalised for Maldives. In the final moments, Maldives won a penalty following Dhagandey’s play inside the box. Sentey stepped up and calmly converted, sealing the victory in stoppage time.

The win gives Maldives their first three points at home in this qualifying campaign.

By Azhaar Abdul Azeez

Writer