Maziya 2-3 New Radiant: Late Winner Stuns Maldives Premier League Rivals

New Radiant produced a dramatic 3-2 away victory over Maziya Sports and Recreation Club in the Maldives Premier League on 18 September 2026, with a late goal settling a thrilling contest at the National Football Stadium in Malé. The result blows the title race open and hands Maziya a painful home defeat against one of their biggest rivals.

Match Overview

The match lived up to its billing as a clash between two of Maldivian football's most recognisable clubs. Maziya started with intent, dominating the ball and creating chances through wide areas, but New Radiant defended with determination and looked dangerous on the counterattack. The visitors took the lead against the run of play and then showed character to respond each time Maziya equalised.

With the score at 2-2 deep into the second half, the game appeared headed for a draw. However, New Radiant found one final moment of quality, scoring in the 88th minute to claim all three points and silence the home crowd.

Key Moments

• 18th minute – Ali Hameed puts New Radiant ahead: A quick break ended with a precise finish into the far corner.
• 34th minute – Ibrahim Mahudhee equalises for Maziya: A flowing move down the left was finished with a first-time strike.
• 56th minute – Ahmed Zayan restores New Radiant's lead: A set-piece scramble fell kindly, and Zayan reacted fastest.
• 72nd minute – Mohamed Umair makes it 2-2: Maziya's pressure told as Umair headed in from a corner.
• 88th minute – Hassan Rasheed wins it: A counterattack caught Maziya exposed, and Rasheed kept his composure to score the decisive goal.

Tactical Story

Maziya controlled long spells of possession, using their full-backs to stretch New Radiant's defensive block. They created numerous crossing opportunities and won a series of corners, one of which led to their second equaliser. However, their commitment to attack left them vulnerable to transitions, and New Radiant exploited that space ruthlessly.

New Radiant's game plan was built on defensive resilience and fast breaks. Their midfield dropped deep to protect the back line, then released quick runners whenever Maziya lost the ball in advanced areas. The winning goal was a perfect example: a turnover in midfield, a direct pass into space, and a calm finish under pressure.

Standout Players

Hassan Rasheed was the hero for New Radiant, not only for the late winner but also for his relentless running across the front line. Ali Hameed and Ahmed Zayan also impressed with their direct play and ability to punish Maziya on the break. New Radiant's goalkeeper made crucial saves in the second half to keep his team level before the decisive moment.

For Maziya, Ibrahim Mahudhee and Mohamed Umair were the standout performers, both scoring and driving their team forward. The midfield created plenty of chances, but the defence will be disappointed with the way they conceded the third goal. In a match of fine margins, New Radiant's efficiency in front of goal proved the difference.

Maldives Premier League Table Impact

This 3-2 win is a major result for New Radiant in the Maldives Premier League standings, tightening the race at the top and boosting their confidence in the head-to-head record against Maziya. For Maziya Sports and Recreation Club, the defeat is a missed opportunity to strengthen their title credentials at home.

The Maldives Premier League continues to deliver high-scoring, dramatic football, and this rivalry fixture added another memorable chapter. New Radiant will look to build on the momentum, while Maziya must regroup quickly before their next fixture.