Eydhafushi, champions of the Ninety Plus Gold Cup 2024, received a hero’s welcome upon their return home yesterday, carrying the coveted Gold Cup trophy.

The island council and residents greeted the team with a traditional rowboat reception, which transitioned into a red carpet welcome and a grand victory parade across the island.

The parade culminated at Eydhafushi’s modern football stadium, where jubilant fans and local leaders gathered for a celebratory ceremony.

The state-of-the-art stadium, built through the generosity of native philanthropist Ahmed Nazeer (Crown Nazeer), was packed with over a thousand fans. During the event, the Eydhafushi Council and the Baa Atoll Council extended their gratitude to the team and supporters for their unwavering commitment to achieving glory.

In addition to showcasing the Gold Cup trophy, the ceremony highlighted the island’s year of glory by displaying two other championship titles. Eydhafushi started 2024 by winning the Golden Futsal Challenge, the nationwide tournament, as they defeated L. Gan 4-2 in the final. They went on to win the “Better in Baa” futsal tournament trophy, secured with a 6-0 victory over Kihaadhoo.

The first-ever Ninety Plus Gold Cup featured 17 teams from nine atolls. Eydhafushi emerged victorious, defeating Addu City 2-0 in Tuesday night’s final. All three trophies were altogether showcased at last evening’s celebrations.

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