Alifushi, who finished the first round as Group D’s top team, faced a setback in their previous match against Maafushi. However, they bounced back with a narrow win over Kurendhoo, with Ahmed Husham scoring the only goal of the game in the 63rd minute. Hussain Nihan provided the assist, crossing the ball into the box, where Husham beat both defenders and the goalkeeper to score.
This victory secured three points for Alifushi, bringing them closer to a spot in the quarterfinals.
In the second round, each team will play two matches. The group stage includes Alifushi, Kurendhoo, and Male’, with Male’ yet to play their first match in this round.