Organized by Housing Development Corporation, Youth City Futsal Cup 2018 – the largest futsal tournament ever in the Maldives has officially commenced last night with it’s opening ceremony.

Held in Ministry of Youth and Sports Futsal ground, near Rehendhi School, the Chief Guest of the ceremony the First Lady of Maldives Madam Fathimath Ibrahim. She was accompanied by Ministers, Members of the Parliament, HDC Board members and Executive Committee members. Additionally, partners and sponsors of the tournament and representatives from each team joined the event as well.

The ceremony commenced with a video presentation regarding YCFC 2018 and the official song for the tournament, followed by a 3D animation of the YCFC champion cup. The ceremony concluded with official opening of the tournament by First lady, Fireworks, and more entertainment activities. Once completed, all attendees were then provided refreshments prior to commencement of matches.

Two matches in total were played during the opening, one from the women’s league and one from the men’s. The first women’s league match was played between Dhivehi Sifainge Club (DSC) and Xenith Sports Club, in which Xenith sports Club won with a score of 1-0. In the first match of men’s league, Desparado FC advanced to the next round after winning with a score of 5-4 against Dhaaelhun Pro.  

Under the Corporate Social Responsibility of Housing Development Corporation, this tournament was initially initiated last year in the aims of creating a friendly environment and a platform for networking, community building and instill values of sportsmanship amongst the participating youth. Moreover, HDC believes in the importance of creating better opportunities for the youth through such activities and make the government’s vision of Hulhumalé as a Youth City come to life.

This year’s tournament will be the second of its kind. The initial tournament was initiated by HDC last year, with 108 teams, whereas 136 teams will be participating this year.