Maldives beat the favorites India 2-1 to lift the SAFF Suzuki cup for the first time since 2008.

Ibrahim Mahudhee Hussain (Feydhoo Ibbe) scored beautifully from a through pass by Hassan Naiz (Dhaadhu). India pressed on but Maldives looked the better team throughout the game. Injury to Akram Abdul Ghani(Aku) was worrying for Maldives but his replacement Ahmed Nooman (Noombe) did the job just fine.

Second half India started with intent but a mistake by Indian defense allowed Ali Fasir (Sentey) through on goal from a pass from Hamza Mohamed (Hampu). Sentey made no mistake and Maldives led by 2-0 in the sixty sixth minute.

Deep into injury time India got a goal back from a low cross, Sumit Passi scored the only game of the match for India.

Photo: ImagesMV